Pros
Local bank engaged within the communities they serve and as of late, they seem to be top in the market regarding offers for lending, deposits and new checking accounts. Benefits are great, especially the PTO and paid holidays. Most full time positions receive 4 weeks PTO from the start along with 10 or so paid holidays. Time off is very generous and that is about it for "pros."
Kontras
The technology is very much out of date and the consolidation of some programs and other services is questionable. The consolidation of programs certainly does not make it any easier or convenient for customers. The online banking/mobile banking platform is still a far cry from other competitors that have much better online banking platforms. If you're in a sales role, such as a Personal Banker, then be prepared for high levels of stress to meet goals that seem impossible to meet and having to push the HelloWallet product on every customer. Even though some goals have been lowered in light of the Wells Fargo scandal, be prepared for high levels of stress to meet and exceed goals by the Area Retail Leader (ARL). In addition to the stressful sales environment, Personal Bankers should expect to also run a teller window more then they should. The staffing model is frustrating and should be a red flag when on the first day on the job you get an email from the retail branch executive explaining philosophy on the staffing models. Tellers are typically part time hours between 20 and 30. Lead tellers are typically full time. Part time tellers don't last long because they often find a better career elsewhere that offers more hours and benefits, leaving branches short on staff. Internal career opportunities are tough to come by. Internal careers are the typical "need to know someone" if you plan to apply for a job outside of retail banking regardless of your qualifications. Salary is below industry average for some sales roles; however, they recently raised the minimum wage for all positions for $15/hour. There is also a clear communication breakdown between some departments. If you're working loans, be prepared to fight tooth and nail to get anything through to the underwriters as trying to get a loan to the final approval status.