GreenStone has several financial service officers (FSOs) working with customers across our territory. Each FSO is designated to work with either traditional (farm) customers or a country living customers. In this issue, hear from two country living FSOs who work with our rural members.
Cynthia Cole, Ionia Branch
Country Living Sr. Financial Services Officer
37 years of service
Describe how your role carries out the GreenStone mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture:
I grew up on a dairy farm and currently cash crop farm with my husband. I understand the hard work of farming and the enjoyment of the lifestyle. I understand the desire to live in the country and enjoy the land. Providing the proper financing that meets the customer’s needs is important to me and it’s what makes my role at GreenStone enjoyable. I value the lasting relationships I have built with all of my customers, as well as other GreenStone customers. At all times, I keep the customer’s needs a priority. I have enjoyed my involvement in 4-H that is hugely supported by GreenStone.
What do you enjoy most about your role at GreenStone?
I have enjoyed getting to know customers and working with them to make their dreams a reality, whether it is purchasing, building, or remodeling their dream home, as well as making the land purchase that will be used for farming, recreational, or a future home. Sometimes it is just plain providing advice that will put them in a position to make their dreams come true if it is not presently possible.
Building a relationship with the customer is important to me as well as I believe it is valued by them. Over the years, in all market segments we have seen struggles, maintaining a friendly and understanding approach is sometimes all that can be provided to show support. Sometimes it is just giving them some well-timed advice so these dreams will be fulfilled in the future.
What changes have been incorporated in your role to meet evolving customer needs?
Phone and meeting in person with handwritten documents was the process for many of my earlier years. Over the last several years, customers are very busy and working off farm, making in person contact with them limited. Electronic communication and exchange of documents is very efficient while still building a relationship.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I have two 4-H clubs and sit on two 4-H committees. My motto is “you never know what little set of eyes are watching you and if you make an impact on just one youth you have made a difference.” I also love to quilt, my motto for this is “when life goes to pieces make a quilt.” I have donated several to 4-H.
I am thankful I have wonderful children and several grandchildren that are a great joy in
my life.
Miranda Kelle, Lapeer Branch
Country Living Financial Services Officer
.5 years of service
Describe how your role carries out the GreenStone mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture:
So many of our smaller scale farmers also hold jobs outside of the farm and we can help them with their financing needs that may not be as inclusive as traditional farmers. Also, we provide lending opportunities to people wanting to be members of the rural community.
What do you enjoy most about your role at GreenStone?
With my job at GreenStone, I get to help make dreams come true for our customers. Whether it is buying that ideal piece of hunting ground to take their kids out hunting for the first time, or building the home they have been dreaming of since they were younger, I am so happy I get to play such a large role in making these life changing events happen. Also, the people I work with share similar passions and make work truly enjoyable.
What changes have been incorporated in your role to meet evolving customer needs?
My role has recently been evolving to keep up with our growing customer base. Our economy is improving financially and we want to make sure we are able to service as many customers as possible. We have made changes to our credit underwriting standards to open up more lending opportunities.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
My family and I raise show pigs and take them all across the country to show and sell. While the farm is in Illinois, I still get some pigs up to my farm here in Michigan. I also have recently gotten into breeding Miniature and Toy Australian Shepherds. I show my dogs in conformation and agility throughout the year with the American Stock Dog Registry.
Link to full article here: https://issuu.com/greenstonefcs/docs/partners_winter_19_final/22
