I’ve worked nearly 45 years in a field I love, with the last 10 at INB being the very best. Now, I’m getting ready to retire.
When someone suggested I write a farewell blog, I wasn’t initially in favor. But then I realized it was a great chance to give a firsthand look at the job of INB’s Communications Director.
Create the Job
When I was hired, I was asked to launch INB’s social media presence, manage advertising and community involvement, and support department initiatives. The framework was loose, so I jumped in and figured it out as I went. It helped that my coworker—and now right-hand-woman—returned from maternity leave, and we tackled the work together. But while I was on my own, I learned popcorn bags are essential, paint is cheap, and marketing manages Christmas decorations.
A big part of the job is writing—lots of it—and editing, too. I focus on social media, advertising, internal communications, and administrative tasks like documenting plans and working with vendors. I’m grateful to have talented colleagues and outside partners to coordinate, design, produce, and schedule the work we do.
One of my favorite compliments came from our CEO, Sarah Phalen, who said I gave INB “a voice.” But really, our leadership has the voice—I just help share it. Another colleague once said, “You sit in a meeting, take our jumbled thoughts, and turn them into something we can share.” To that I say, “Journalism 101.”
If you want this job, you need to be a strong listener and an even stronger writer.
Meet the Team
Everyone was patient as I learned banking (previous experience was insurance.) Early on, our CFO gave me a crash course in how banks make money (very helpful!). I learned the ropes -- department structures, products (who knew there were different types of checking accounts?), and compliance regulations.
People here “get it done.” Long-time employees tell stories of execs approving loans, then taking out the trash on their assigned nights. That mentality still exists. As communications director, expect to clean closets, decorate offices, plan parties, and be involved in nearly every initiative.
Make Friends
When COVID hit in 2020, INB stayed open. Non-customer-facing staff quickly transitioned to working from home, where we didn’t miss a beat. Sarah often says we succeeded during that time because of the strong in-office relationships we’d already built—and I believe that’s true. Those friendships made remote work easier and more effective. If your early to-do list simply reads, “Meet People; Make Friends,” you’ll be successful.
Keep It Moving
INB prides itself on moving quickly. We advertise fast loan approvals and efficient mortgage processes. That speed carries into marketing. If we need to launch a campaign today or order promo items for an event next week, we can probably do it. But to succeed in this role, you’ll need to understand bank marketing compliance and act fast -- think days, not weeks. The structure here supports this!
Try New Things
I’ve always appreciated our leadership’s openness to innovation. When I first proposed a new idea, the response was, “Well, we won’t know if we don’t try.” That mindset gave me room to test, learn, and evolve.
I hope my replacement brings their own fresh ideas.
Keep Learning
INB leadership encourages continued learning. Sarah and our HR team support reading business books and participating in professional development. My team and I have attended social media conferences and communications training both in-person and online. Learning is part of the culture here. You just need to make the effort to identify opportunities and take them!
Core Values
INB doesn’t change its strategy or messaging every year. Our leadership builds on long-term goals and sticks to our core values: Caring, Creative, Teamwork, Balance, Working Smart, and Assertive & Enthusiastic. These values have been consistent since I joined and likely since INB’s founding in 1999. With that kind of stability, the Communications Director can plan confidently and effectively.
Apply Now
This job has given me incredible freedom to shape marketing strategies and contribute to INB’s growth. While it’s tough to measure marketing’s exact impact, I like to think our efforts played a part in the bank’s success.
As I retire, I want this role to go to someone who cares deeply about the team, values excellence, and wants to keep INB moving forward. If that sounds like you, apply today: Jobs | Banking Careers at INB.