Ozarks Profile: Don Gibson, Guaranty Bank

President and CEO of Guaranty Bank and Guaranty Federal Bancshares

Tell us about the bank.

As of June 30, we're about a $390-million bank. The bank was actually established in 1891 in St. Louis and has been a part of Springfield since 1913. It very likely is the oldest financial institution in the area that's home-owned. In 1995, it converted to a mutual holding company, which kept the holding company owning the majority of the publicly traded stock. In December of 1997, it went to a publicly traded company. It trades on the NASDAQ under "GFED."

Did the name change from Guaranty Federal Savings Bank to Guaranty Bank change services?

It actually expanded our service capabilities, primarily commercial lending. It gives us a little more latitude to be able to do different types of loans and puts us on a level playing field with the other banks in Springfield.

What drew you into the banking industry?

I started at Union National Bank in 1961, which later became Boatmen's, and then I left Boatmen's in 1975 and went with Great Southern, and stayed with Great Southern for 25 years. I've been at Guaranty Bank since January 2002.

What is it about the banking industry that has held your interest for so long?

It's just been an opportunity over the years to work in a good business environment. In addition to that, you get to work with a lot of good people. I think most of the bankers in town are good people to work with.

What are some of the biggest challenges for banks?

It's so competitive. In Springfield, especially, we've got good competition.

How does Guaranty Bank work to stand out among competitors?

I just think we provide better customer service, with all decisions made locally. We have a total of nine branches. We've got four in the Dillon's supermarkets, four free-standing branches and one in the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Nixa. We have 17 ATMs.

What are some goals for the bank?

I think as every publicly traded (company) should tell you it's to enhance shareholder value. We need to continue to grow the bank and we've got a plan right now on the drawing boards to move out of the supermarkets to free-standing branches adjacent to the supermarkets, or as close as possible. We're targeting three new branches next year to provide more convenient access for our customers.

Tell us about your family.

My wife Judy and I have been married 37 years. We have three sons and two outstanding daughters-in-law, and three wonderful grandchildren.