Jeff Messenger has dealt with banks for more than 40 years, and he considers Ilene Glenn the best banker he’s ever had.
“I have never had anyone go the extra mile as much as Ilene does,” says Messenger, owner of Ozark Prosthetics and Orthotics. “She works so well with us in getting all the paperwork needed to present to the board for a loan. Ilene always asks, ‘How are you doing? How is your family? Is your business doing well? How can we help make your business more successful?’”
Glenn considers that part of her job as a vice president at Bank of Bolivar. Her role is to listen closely and work toward her clients’ goals to give them the best chance of succeeding.
“I am there to counsel and encourage them,” she says. “My hope is to find an easy path to completing their projects instead of them feeling the pain of the paperwork that we bankers normally request.”
Glenn says she understands the maze of projections, cost estimates, financial statements and business plans can be overwhelming, so she holds her clients’ hands through this process and assists where she can to lessen the burden.
“Opening a new business, expanding, purchasing a company, requesting money and talking to bankers are often uncomfortable times,” she says. “I really try to share in people’s hopes and excitement rather than add to their lot of uncertainties and worries.”
Glenn began in banking in 1981. In 1982, she was part of the team that began Metropolitan National Bank, and in 1996, Glenn was again part of a new bank, First Independent Bank of Aurora.
Two years later, she moved to Countryside Bank, where she stayed until going to Bank of Bolivar in 2007. She primarily is involved with commercial lending, including Small Business Administration loans.
“I actually enjoy putting projects together and watching them grow,” she says. “My heart goes into these projects right alongside my customers’ dreams and hard work.”
Glenn says it’s fulfilling to see an idea grow into a successful business that not only provides the customer with a future they can control, but also an opportunity for generations to come. The ultimate reward for her? Walking into a newly finished building or attending the grand opening of something that was just an office discussion six months earlier.
Glenn says she cares for her clients and spends their money as if it were hers. And when the deal is done, she promotes her clients’ businesses whenever she can.
In Messenger’s experience, Glenn makes the loan process seamless.
“Ilene is always there for us,” he says, noting she makes sure to notify him when notes are due and makes sure he gets the lowest interest rate. “I am a very busy business owner. Ilene is very knowledgeable in all types of loans.”
Messenger is unequivocal in his endorsement of Glenn’s professionalism.
“I know we would be at a loss if it were not for Ilene. Our business would not operate as well, and we would not be able to grow like we have been,” he says. “I also know that if Ilene went to another bank, we would follow her.
