We’re thrilled to introduce Kerry Murphy as our new Customer Relations Specialist! What is she specializing in? Well, the Gliding Free Club, of course!
With an extensive background in banking and a passion for helping people, Kerry will be working closely with our Gliders to make sure they feel supported and heard. And we’re not the only ones who know Kerry will be an amazing addition to the Gliding Free Club.
“The energy and insight Kerry brings to this role make her a fantastic resource for our Gliders,” said Linda Schellpfeffer, retired Horicon Bank Customer Relations Officer. “I worked with Kerry for many years and have seen firsthand that she is a truly caring banker. I can’t wait for our Gliders to meet her!”
Darlene Kurtz, Regional Branch Manager and former Gliding Free Club Coordinator agrees.
“I’m excited for Kerry to step into this role,” said Kurtz. “This is a special group of customers, and I know they are in good hands with a banker like Kerry.”
So who is Kerry Murphy? Let’s ask her!
Kerry, you’ve been in banking for over 18 years! What brought you to the banking industry, and why have you stayed?
Kerry: I fell into banking 100% by accident. When I was 19, I had been working seasonal jobs and I was nudged to find something that lasts all year while I was in college. I found a job opportunity for the Blue Goose Coffee House in the local newspaper (imagine that!), and at the time I didn’t even know I was applying at Horicon Bank. I loved my job at the coffee house, but when I graduated college, I was offered a full-time position as a bank teller and the rest is history. I fell in love with banking, particularly being a Horicon Banker. Since then, I have learned so many life skills and made connections with hundreds of colleagues and customers over the years that I value greatly.
What are you most excited about with your new role working with the Gliding Free Club?
Kerry: Our Gliders are a special group of individuals. I love to hear all the stories, perspectives, and I greatly respect their life experiences. I also love hearing about kids, grandkids, pets, and my most favorite topic, travel! I can’t wait to hit the road with the Gliders.
If you weren’t in banking, what career would you have pursued?
Kerry: I received my bachelor’s degree in environmental studies and was hoping to work in environmental education. I am thankful that the bank I ended up working for happens to be “The Natural Choice.” It feels like the right fit!
What’s one financial tip you think everyone should know?
Kerry: There are so many small habits that you can start with at any age. One of the top things I recommend is to monitor your accounts as often as possible. This goes for bank accounts and credit cards and any financial services you use. In today’s world, fraud can and does happen, and the sooner you can catch it, the better off you’ll be.
Since you started in the bank’s coffee house, we have to know: what’s your go-to coffee order?
Kerry: Thanks to my early career at the Blue Goose Coffee House, I have not met a coffee drink I don’t like. But my go-to is always an iced latte, no flavor.
If you could instantly become an expert in anything (not banking-related), what would it be?
Kerry: Everything music! I wish I could play all the instruments, and most importantly, I’d love to be an expert singer.
What’s your favorite local spot to relax or grab lunch?
Kerry: I have a favorite spot in just about every Horicon Bank community, but my favorites in Fond du Lac, where I reside, are Backyard Bar and Grill, Bob’s Pizza, Joe’s Fox Hut, and Jersey Mikes. I can’t pick just one!
Are you involved in any local events or volunteer work?
Kerry: Horicon Bank is gracious enough to provide employees with volunteer time to use throughout the year. I like to use mine at the Fond du Lac County Fair or with the Eden Fire Department Auxiliary. (Eden is my hometown and close to my heart.) But I’m always looking for opportunities to help!
If you could have dinner with any historical figure or famous person, who would it be and why?
Kerry: Bob Uecker. I’m a big Brewer fan, and I wish I could hear all his humorous baseball stories. Really miss hearing him on the radio!
What app on your phone do you use the most (besides Ascend Digital Banking, of course)?
Kerry: I check Ascend every single day (and you should to!) Besides that, I enjoy Instagram, but for non-social media, I have been obsessed with Merlin Bird ID. It can recognize and help you identify what type of birds are in the area just from recording the sounds around you.
Watch for more news from Kerry and the Gliding Free Club coming soon!
Want to stay connected with Kerry and the Gliding Free Club? Just email glidingfree@horiconbank.com or call 920-485-7334 to get in touch with Kerry today!