Jason Rooks
SVP/Commercial Lending Manager
Flint Community Bank, Albany, GA
South Group Rep., 2022-2023 Leadership GBA Board of Directors
Q: What led you to a career in banking?
A: My dad was a CEO of a community bank, so I feel like banking is in my blood. I watched the impact and respect he had in the lives of those in our community and his customers. Helping people and building relationships is why I love banking as a career. Life really is all about relationships with others, and I am thankful that is the main part of my job as a community banker.
Q: What is the most useful piece of advice you received in the early/formative years of your career?
A: I have learned a lot over the last 20 years of my banking career from many different bankers and leaders. It has all lead to my mindset of valuing and investing in relationships both within the bank and outside of the bank. Also, I fully believe that honoring people, your commitments and convictions is key in community banking, where trust is a major component.
Q: Tell us about one experience you’ve had that exemplifies being a banker, such as a service story that really helped a customer or a quirky story.
A: My favorite experiences in banking have been related to the opening of new businesses or purchase of existing businesses. There is a sense of pride, respect and honor in buying a successful business or starting one from scratch. One of my favorite memories involved an existing successful restaurant that had been in operation for 15 years and was owned and operated by three brothers. They had a close relationship with their manager/bookkeeper and wanted her to buy the business from them. We were able to provide financing through an SBA loan for her to purchase the business, and it was an emotional closing with tears and hugs for all the parties involved. Those days make you feel valued to play a small part in the American Dream for someone.
Q: Top Three…
- Book that you love/has made an impact? The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
- Most used app? Apple Music
- TV show or series you love? Yellowstone
Q: When you’re not on the job at the bank, what do you like to do?
A: If I am not at the bank, I am spending time with my family because we stay busy with three kids. When I do have free time, I enjoy playing golf, collecting vinyl records, hunting and being an amateur at smoking meat.