Company: Fifth Third Bank
Title: Middle Market Relationship Manager
Length of FEI membership: 8 years
Work email: [email protected]
Work phone number: (813) 306-2499
Have you ever done anything out of the ordinary to apply for and/or get a job?
At the time I accepted my position with Fifth Third Bank in 2015, I was suffering from herniated discs in my lower back. Several days prior to my scheduled mandatory drug screening for employment, I found myself in so much pain I was not able to stand. My wife, Silvana, rushed me to the ER where the nurse pumped me full of morphine. Shortly thereafter, I called the HR department at Fifth Third to let them know I would likely fail the drug screening, but they should hire me anyway. Thankfully, the bank understood my unique situation and a discectomy later corrected the herniated discs.
What do you love most about working in the finance profession?
As a Middle Market Relationship Manager, I have the opportunity to meet successful business owners and management of a very diverse population of companies across Tampa Bay on an almost daily basis. I am passionate about learning how businesses began, why their leaders chose a particular industry, what products or processes make them superior, and the opportunities and challenges they perceive. In order for me to fully understand a business, I have to leave my office and see the operation for myself, which is a bonus!
Do you think it takes a certain kind of personality to thrive in your field? What traits are most important?
The great thing about middle market banking is one does not have to come from a specific background to be successful. Not everyone in the field possesses an MBA, CFA, or even a degree in Finance. The ability to be analytical and assess risk is certainly a great asset. But above all else, our business is about building personal relationships, consistent follow up, and providing relevant and timely information.
What is your best networking tip?
I used to find it difficult to break into groups of people talking together at networking events, choosing instead to focus on people standing by themselves. A number of years ago I attended a networking clinic with Clint Babcock of Sandler Training as the keynote speaker. He was able to convince me that not only is it just as easy to move almost seamlessly into a group conversation, but it gives you the opportunity to meet more people.
What are some of your personal hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy playing golf, watching sports (both live and on television), traveling with my family (Silvana and I have three children – Andrew, Nicholas & Sofia) to new places, baking (yes, really), grilling, and sampling craft beer.