SHEFFIELD — For UNA alumnus and Bank Independent banker Victor Alves, a new professional development program offered by his employer has completely changed his career trajectory.
Alves graduated from Bank Independent’s year-long Campus to Career (C2C) program in late July. He has since been moved from a part-time teller position with the company to a new role as a credit analyst.
“Victor has embraced every opportunity the C2C program presented with a passion for learning, balanced with the humility to be taught,” said Rick Wardlaw, CEO of Bank Independent. “Most notably, he has built authentic relationships across the organization throughout his progress.
“These are all key success factors for the program, for the bank, and for any healthy career.”
Alves said his interest in the program peaked after hearing “great things” about Bank Independent both as a business and an employer.
“After graduation, I learned about the bank’s C2C program and became intrigued,” he said. “It’s an opportunity many recent college graduates might overlook because of its entry-level nature, but I wanted to learn more about banking.
“I knew if I could participate in C2C, that teller experience would be a solid foundation.”
Bank President Macke Mauldin also praised Alves and credited his alma mater with being a strategic partner.
“Like the Bank, UNA has a tradition of attracting and retaining quality students who make us a better community,” Mauldin said. “The Campus to Career program is an extended opportunity for incredible candidates like Victor Alves to continue to excel locally and remain rooted in the community.”
According to Corey Thomaston, professional development officer at Bank Independent, the C2C program was developed to support the institution’s long-term objectives.
“It’s no coincidence that Bank Independent is celebrating 77 years of service. Our leaders have been intentional about succession planning,” said Thomaston. “We are strong partners with our colleges and universities, and we are the employer of choice for the communities we serve.”
The Campus to Career program, or C2C, is designed to recruit and retain top-notch college-educated talent to the organization through unique coaching and career development opportunities to meet individual long-term goals and support the strategy of the bank.
Participants are introduced to the bank’s culture as they begin receiving direction and guidance from trusted managers, leaders, and mentors.
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