Carrie Beth Allender has been promoted to loan processor lead at First Service Bank.

Her primary focus will be on commercial loans and helping the team where needed. She will also assist with projects and audits. “I have already had the opportunity to work more with Andy Grumbles, CFO, on projects. Seeing his excitement and energy is empowering and makes a person want to work hard and be more innovative,”

Carrie Beth is excited to have an opportunity to develop professionally as First Service Bank while being part of a growing financial institution. “We have many plans for loan processing on the horizon, and I am excited to be innovative with my team and find more ways to be efficient and continuously work toward improvement,” she said.

“Carrie is a energetic advantage to our team, and we are thrilled to grow with her as she leads in her new position,” said Kasey Jaracz, loan operations manager.

Even though she has worked only nine months at First Service Bank, Carrie Beth is utilizing skills she acquired in other professions and “those experiences have allowed me to understand banking very rapidly.” She also is appreciative of the training she has received at First Service and her supportive team. “Although I have only been with FSB for less than a year, I grew and learned quickly because of the team that trained me so well and allowed me opportunities for growth,” she said. “I would not be where I am without my team – especially Brooke McCullough, who trained me in consumer processing, and Kasey Jaracz, who inspires me daily with her hard work and extensive knowledge.”

It is the environment at First Service Bank that Carrie Beth enjoys most about her work. “Something that separates FSB from any other workplace is the support that we give each other. We have help from others on our team and all the way up to the CEO,” she said. “Every individual is hardworking and knowledgeable. We come together to make sure we provide the best services and care for our customers and community. On professional and personal levels, the FSB family lives up to the name that promotes service above all else.”

Carrie Beth graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a degree in Spanish and mathematics. Born and raised in Batesville, she lived in Conway for nine years before moving to El Dorado, where she taught school for four years. She returned to Conway last year. She is engaged and her fiancé has a son.

Carrie Beth said First Service Bank is true to its name and motto, with all associates prioritizing service. “I love that there are opportunities to volunteer together in our communities, serving those in need, from building wheelchair ramps to supporting veterans through Operation Red, White and Brave. It is important to take care of those who have allowed us to have the freedoms we have, and we are able to do that together with our co-workers. It makes us stronger while also having a huge impact on our communities.”

First Service Bank, with its headquarters in Faulkner County, has been in operation for more than 60 years and has locations in Clinton, Conway, Dermott, Flippin, Greenbrier, Little Rock, Mountain View, Shirley, and Yellville. For more information, visit firstservicebank.com.