Pam Bradley
Pam Bradley’s role at the help desk puts her at the forefront of the myriad technology changes that have revolutionized banking. “Our goal is to be on the cutting edge all the time,” she says.
Which means challenge after challenge as she learns to work with new computer equipment and features, and to immediately master new software that continually becomes available to improve efficiency, accuracy, and how we serve customers.
Jumping in hands-on and trying the latest of everything is the best way to learn, Pam says. Because technology companies don’t always have instructional manuals, the Internet has filled the void. “There is more and more helpful information out there, and in recent years, Google has become a key source.”
Not having an answer is not an option for staff who work in Information Systems. “I occasionally have to say, ‘I’ll get back to you on that,’ and then I start my search,” Pam says.
Experience, responsibility grow with bank expansions
With Pam’s longevity — she just celebrated her 35th service anniversary — she has seen her department grow to meet North Shore Bank’s expanded network of branches and corporate staff. “We used to serve eight or nine branches; now we have 45.”
She appreciates how technology has improved the speed of communication and information transfer. “Everyone takes email for granted, but those of us who once functioned without it know how much more quickly and efficiently we can provide information because of it.”
Relentless change means nonstop learning, but that’s OK with Pam. “It gives all of us the opportunity to learn and develop new skills,” she says. Citing the emergence of social media as an important communication tool, she says she expects the rapid advances in telecommunication to continue, creating even more ways for the bank to foster conversations with customers.
Passion for job parallels passion for community outreach
Pam’s first role in 1978 was teller at our Southeast office, which then was one of just eight North Shore Bank branches. Thirty-five years has meant multiple roles for her, experience that has provided a broad understanding of how we operate, enhancing her ability to understand and help solve problems.
Pam is as enthused about and committed to the human side of North Shore Bank as she is the technology side. She talks with pride about her MIS team and the funds they raise for charitable organizations.
Last year’s “Haunted Department” involved spooky decorated offices as well as staff dressing in costume, selling homemade treats and holding a raffle. “We raised over $900 for Ronald McDonald House,” she says with pride. Explaining how the group decides which organizations to help, she says, “We sit down and throw out ideas. Sometimes we pick one that has had a positive impact on someone in our department.” Second Harvest and the Make-A-Wish Foundation are other organizations that have benefited from MIS staff fundraising efforts.
Pam admits that her enthusiasm for and commitment to helping others compels her not only to walk up to someone to request a donation. “I’ll beg and grovel for the money if I have to,” she says.
Reflecting on life and work, Pam views North Shore Bank’s community outreach as symbolic of how to find satisfaction and joy. “To get more out of life, out of your job, out of a relationship, you have to give more of yourself. That investment will pay you back over and over again.”
It’s uncommon these days to find an employee in any field who has stayed with an organization for 35 years. “I’ve always felt that what I do is appreciated,” Pam says, “so why not keep doing it?”