Sara Heath
AVP & Compliance Officer
Bank of Dawson, Dawson, GA
Member, GBA Compliance Committee
Published Sept. 25, 2025
Q: What was your first job, and is there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: My first job was in banking as a bookkeeper at the bank I am currently still working in. Through the years I transitioned into several different roles/positions in both deposit and loan operations and eventually was approached about the role of compliance.
The biggest lesson I would say I’ve learned is to never stop learning. Even in my role now, I am constantly learning something new every day. Always, always, always ask the why. Always know the reasoning (even if you don’t think it makes sense) and don’t be afraid to learn new things.
Q: What was the most useful piece of advice you received from a mentor?
A: Document everything! “If you didn’t document it, it didn’t happen!”
Q: Tell us about one experience that exemplifies your role as a banker.
A: Since I have become “back office,” over the last few years I have lost communication with customers on a day-to-day basis. I will never forget the customers that would always come to me repeatedly. I truly enjoyed and looked forward to seeing them. While most days I enjoy being in an office to myself, there are times where I miss that interaction. I look forward to community involvement days where I get to be involved and see some familiar faces as it does brighten my day!
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: I have never flown on an airplane. Want to, though!
Q: Pet peeve?
A: Smacking – Makes me cringe!
Q: Most used app?
A: Messages and Facebook
Q: TV show or series you love?
A: Anything true crime related.