Ozarks Profile

Vice president, Metropolitan National Bank, 600 S. Glenstone. The bank is one of the largest independent banks in the area with $217 million in assets. As part of the commercial lending team, Hancock specializes in business development and credit analysis. Metropolitan National Bank was started in 1983. New ownership purchased the bank in April 1997. Following that purchase, Metropolitan National set out to increase its commercial lending activity, targeting small- to medium-sized businesses. Hancock "was drawn to the bank because of (the) emphasis on commercial banking opportunities, the seven area locations (after the merger with commonly owned Citizens State Bank of Marshfield), and the seasoned professionals with whom I work," she said. Hancock is affiliated with the Small Business Council of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, a board member of the Greater Ozarks Young Republicans, a member of the Junior League of Springfield, and a member of the Women Investors Network.

Age: 28.

No. of years in Springfield/area: Born and raised in Springfield. With the exception of a short time in Washington, D.C., Hancock has lived here all her life.

Education: Bachelor of science in finance from Southwest Missouri State University, with an emphasis on investments and business law.

Early career: After graduation from college in 1990, Hancock received a presidential appointment to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative from President George Bush. She returned to Springfield to accept a public relations position with the local office of the U.S. Small Business Administration, which quickly turned into a six-year career in the Finance Division of SBA. Hancock served as primary credit underwriter, where she gained experience in financial structuring and lending for all types of businesses. "Having grown up working in a small, family-owned business, I understand the unique needs of small businesses," Hancock said. Metropolitan National Bank is meeting the financing needs of small businesses in Greene, Christian and Webster Counties, Hancock said. "Our professionalism and responsiveness are valued by our customers, who enjoy the benefits of what a bank our size can do for them, as well as a quick response to their financing needs," Hancock said. Also, with three locations in Springfield, two in Marshfield, one in Nixa and one in Ozark, "we are conveniently located and are committed to offering personal, professional service," Hancock said.

Current projects: Development of corporate services such as cash management, PC banking and implementation of debit cards, and a voice-response system.

Management philosophy: "We try to conduct our bank business as you would conduct your business," Hancock said.

Spare-time pursuits: "Volunteering with the Junior League of Springfield-sponsored Greene County Teen Court, as well as United Way, March of Dimes and political campaigns." She is also learning to play golf and enjoys traveling.

Family data: "My family has deep roots in the Ozarks and within the small business community," Hancock said. Her father, former Rep. Mel Hancock, and her mother, Sug, started a small business in security-alarm leasing and sales. While one brother pursued a legal career, Hancock's brother Kim now serves as president of Federal Protection Inc., as well as Federal Construction Inc.

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