Take 5 with Zions Talent: Neal Squires
This multitalented Zions Bank branch manager talks about creating a culture of positivity and striving to put his clients first every day.
Meet Neal Squires, manager of Zions Bank’s branch at Eagle and Chinden in Boise. Neal and I had so much fun connecting virtually. He is a committed banker who cares deeply about his customers and community.
He is also in a band so immediately piqued my interest. We made an agreement that when COVID-19 is under control, I will come to Boise and see his band, River Rocks, play at a live concert! I can’t wait.
Here is a brief summary of our conversation.
What is unique about you?
I love being positive. It doesn’t mean I always am, 100% of the time, but I truly believe that you choose your attitude each day and being positive really makes a difference. This has helped me create a culture of fun, positive energy at our branch. It has sometimes been challenging during COVID-19, but my focus on positivity has helped me and the branch stay focused on doing what’s best for our customers.
What motivates and inspires you?
My team! It is great to work with amazing people every day. Their desire to work hard and put customers first is very motivating. I also enjoy solving problems and teaching others how to critically think and solve difficult situations as well. As a manager, it is very important to have a strong team and create a positive environment where problems are solved. It has helped us be more united and have greater sense of purpose.
What do you enjoy doing when not at work?
After spending time with my wonderful family, I have two personal passions: guitar and sports. I am in a local band and I play guitar and try to sing. We play a variety of music genres from The Beatles to One Republic to traditional Irish folk. The secret to our ability to play such different music is that we have an amazing fiddle player!
My second passion of sports includes just about every sport out there. I play softball in the summer every year with a local city league and enjoy casual playing of golf, disc golf, basketball, tennis, badminton, croquet, racquetball and am going to try pickleball when it warms up.
What do you love most about working for Zions Bank?
I love the connection the bank fosters between me and our customers. I have never felt so empowered with the trust of our senior management to take care of our customers in a way that is customized to our market. Time and time again my manager coaches us to “do what’s best for your market” and “be a market leader.” We have the flexibility to identify products and services to meet the specific needs of our customers and to hire a team to address those needs most effectively.
Looking to transform your career in 2020? Learn more about career opportunities with Zions Bank and Zions Bancorporation on our Careers website.
Trina Eyring is director of Recruiting for Zions Bancorporation.