Ozarks Profile: Gil Trout

UMB Bank is a publicly-traded bank that provides financial services to both individual and business customers in six Midwest states with 153 banking center locations. The south central region is comprised of 10 communities and 22 banking center locations within a two-hour drive from Springfield. We have 60 full-time employees right now.

Specifically, what is your job?

My job is to support the continued growth and profitability in each of the markets in my region. I work with the bank presidents in each market to assist them with business development, budgeting, pricing and oversight.

How did you arrive in this position?

I have worked for UMB Bank for 16 years in a variety of operations, lending and management positions. Before moving to Springfield a few years ago, I was a community bank president in Kansas City.

How does UMB Bank support economic growth and development?

Besides the traditional banking services for business and consumers, we are very active in community development activities across the region. Here in Springfield, UMB is offering below market home improvement loans for owner-occupied homes in the center city area. UMB also administers the city’s employer-assisted housing program.

Is the response to those loan programs where you’d like it to be?

Especially on the city’s employer assisted housing program, I don’t think that’s actually had the success … that we had anticipated. But even on the home improvement, just educating the urban neighorhood, (making) people aware of the program, is part of our challenge. We’re starting similar programs in Joplin and Carthage, and we’re really committed to improving the housing and doing the right thing for our community.

What are some challenges specific to your region?

Managing the economic growth, from proper infrastructure to the environment.

How do you address those challenges?

From standard loan products for commercial operations to bond underwriting and corporate trust activities for public buildings and infrastructure.

What are some of the economic positives for this area?

Hard-working, educated work force, low cost of living, low crime, recreational opportunities and a healthy environment.

Tell us about your family and spare-time interests.

My wife Julie and I have a 3-year-old son, Nathan. We enjoy tennis, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

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