Since 1902, Queensborough National Bank & Trust has defined what it means to run a family-centered business. For 120 years, we have helped local customers fulfill their dreams for their families, sometimes through personal financing and other times to help their businesses grow. We live up to this commitment all the way to the top.
Bill Easterlin is the President and CEO of Queensborough National Bank & Trust. His daughter Clare Easterlin SPHR, SHRM-CP, is an Assistant Vice President and the Human Resources Operations Director. Together, they represent the fourth and fifth generations of their family working together in banking.
We recently had a chance to speak with them about their recommendations and advice when it comes to working with family. Let’s start with Clare’s perspective. Her route to the family business wasn’t always a sure thing.
“I did not have aspirations to work at the bank when I was younger. Growing up in Louisville, I wanted to get away, but as time went by I was really ready to come home. After moving back, it was a much easier realization that I should stop fighting the inevitable and join the Queensborough team in the HR department,” said Clare.
Like all our team members, Bill and Clare care deeply about our customers and enjoy talking about the day’s challenges and successes.
“The best thing is that I get to see my dad more often and I get to see another side of him. He’s not my direct supervisor but I get the amazing benefit of learning this industry from him. It adds another layer to our already great relationship,” she said.
She spoke about the pros and cons of working with family and the importance of balancing work time and family time.
“If you’re thinking about working with a family member or joining the family business, I would advise two things. First, don’t rush the decision but don’t fight it either! Do it if you can and if it feels right. Second, don’t always talk about work. This is advice my grandfather gave my dad and then he gave me. Keep some time sacred where you both agree not to talk business.”
Bill Easterlin elaborates on the lessons he learned when working with his father at the bank. For him, the journey was less of a surprise and more of a natural evolution.
“I always assumed I would work with my father [Clare’s grandfather]. During my more rebellious times, I considered doing something else but in the end I knew I would come home to work at the bank.
Bill spoke to the advice Clare alludes to.
“Dad and I discussed many problems and hard issues during the week and during work hours. But on weekends when we were doing our family thing, raising babies/grandbabies, cooking for our large extended family, playing at the pool or such, we never discussed work related problems. We talked a good bit about work, but only about the opportunities and the good things.”
What’s his advice for other parents and adult children working together?
“I think it is hard for children to get to know their parents as adults. Working for my father gave me that chance. I was able to see what he accomplished, how he solved problems, and how he addressed internal and external issues.”
At Queensborough, we’re committed to helping our customers build their family’s dreams and legacies. We treat each customer right, working with them side by side when it’s time to make decisions for the betterment of current and future generations.