In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of how Jenna Williams, the Vice President and SBA Business Development Officer at a Northern California community bank., embarked on her path to success in the financial sector. Join us as Jenna shares her experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided her along the way. Discover what sets her apart from other financial experts, how Jenna navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and her aspirations for the future. Get ready to be inspired by Jenna’s journey as a leader and her relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of banking.
From Tenacity to Triumph: Jenna Williams’ Leadership in the Financial Sector
Jenna Williams exemplifies the qualities of effective leadership in the banking and financial services industry, marked by integrity, dedication, and a deep understanding of clients’ needs. In 2024, Williams returned to a community bank after a six-month hiatus to recover from a near-death experience. With over 2 decades of experience, she has built a successful career through her tireless work ethic, tenacity, and winning attitude. Jenna brings proven expertise in business development, business administration, investments, and lending. She closely works with clients, providing critical information about receiving and qualifying for SBA loans, ensuring they have the support needed to achieve their entrepreneurial goals.
From Restaurant to Financial: Jenna Williams’ Journey
Jenna Williams’ professional journey began at the age of 18 in the restaurant industry, where she quickly became a top product seller. This early success ignited her passion for sales, prompting her transition into a sales career. She started at Silicon Maps, Inc., where she served as a sales and project manager, honing her skills in customer relations and project management. Ms. Williams then moved to Inter-Tel, gaining valuable insights into the communications industry. After taking a few years off to focus on her family, she re-entered the professional world with Wells Fargo in 2007. Over the years, she immersed herself in various banking roles, building her expertise and reputation in the industry. In 2021, Ms. Williams transitioned to Community Banking, refining her skills in commercial lending, and then moved to Fremont Bank as a Relationship Manager. Her passion for SBA lending eventually led her to become an SBA specialist, where she balances her professional ambitions with personal life.
Dedication to Supporting Women in the Industry
Jenna Williams’ dedication to supporting women in the industry is evident through her active involvement with Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW). She has served in multiple board roles, including DEI Director, Programs Committee, Membership Committee, and currently as Golf Chair. Her commitment to CREW reflects her belief in the importance of women supporting women, a cause she deeply values.
Accolades and Honors
Jenna Williams has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, earning global recognition for her achievements in banking and financial services. Recognized by Marquis Who’s Who of Professional Women for Business, Finance, and Leadership, Ms. Williams is a contender for the prestigious Empowered Woman Award and is set to be featured in TIP (Top Industry Professionals) Magazine. In December, she will be honored at the IAOTP’s annual awards gala at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, receiving the title of Top Small Business Administration Specialist of the Year.
A Holistic Approach
Williams attributes much of her success to her unwavering integrity, dedication, and steadfast pursuit of her goals. From a young age, she possessed a love for mathematics, which evolved into a talent for banking and investing. Grateful for the opportunities she has encountered, Ms. Williams remains committed to working hard and leveraging her expertise for the benefit of her clients. Her real estate investing extends beyond her professional life, having successfully acquired residential and commercial properties in California and Nevada. She aims to own more than 20 properties by retirement, reflecting her ambitious nature and strategic mindset.
Channeling Passion into Profession: Insights from Jenna Williams
Jenna Williams offers invaluable advice for future leaders in banking and financial services. Key takeaways from her journey include:
- Embrace Integrity and Dedication: Uphold the highest standards of integrity and commit fully to your goals. Your reputation as a reliable and trustworthy professional will be your greatest asset.
- Leverage Your Passion: Find what excites you and turn it into a career. Channel your passion into developing expertise and excelling in your chosen area.
- Invest in Yourself: Continuously seek opportunities for learning and growth. Stay updated on industry trends and acquire new skills and knowledge.
- Balance Professional and Personal Life: Strive for a balance between career and personal life. Pursue hobbies and activities that bring joy and contribute to overall well-being.
- Build and Nurture Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and industry peers. Genuine connections built on respect and support are most rewarding.
- Set Ambitious Goals: Set clear objectives for professional and personal achievements. Ambitious goals will drive efforts and provide direction.
- Give Back to the Community: Engage in community service and support causes that resonate with you. Civic contributions will enrich your life and enhance your professional reputation.
- Find and Be a Mentor: Mentorship plays a crucial role in professional growth. Having a mentor provides valuable experience and guidance, while being a mentor allows you to honor your own journey by helping others develop. Jenna Williams believes in the significance of mentorship in shaping one’s career and personal development. As Bob Proctor wisely noted, “A mentor is someone who sees more talent and ability within you, than you see in yourself, and helps bring it out of you.”
In conclusion, Jenna Williams’ journey from a young restaurant salesperson to a distinguished leader in banking exemplifies a remarkable blend of resilience, passion, and dedication. Her career reflects not only her exceptional professional achievements but also her commitment to personal growth, community involvement, and mentorship. By embracing integrity, leveraging her passions, and continuously investing in her own development, Jenna has set a high standard for future leaders in the financial sector. Her holistic approach to balancing career and personal life, coupled with her dedication to supporting others and giving back to the community, serves as an inspiring model for others striving for excellence in their own careers.
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