Rebecca Liles started working at Scott County Bank (now Chambers Bank) when it opened on May 19, 1980. “That was an exciting time for Johnny (Chambers)… for all of us,” she said.
Those were the days before computers and core banking systems, when all data was manually entered into paper logbooks and mailed off for processing, and the tellers used microfiche to check balances. “When we first got computers at the branch, that was a really big deal,” Liles said. “Technology has definitely been the biggest change in banking since I started,” she said. “But the business is the same. We’re here to help customers.”
Bekki began her banking career in Waldron, working as a teller, then moving to a loan assistant role. She eventually transitioned to Mena to help open the branch there. “I wore a lot of hats and did a lot of jobs,” she said. “But what all those positions had in common is that I helped people. That’s what I’ve always wanted to do—help people.” She served as the branch manager and a loan officer in Mena before moving into her current role on the finance team as VP/Overdraft Protection.
As she plans for retirement at the end of this year after 43 years of service, she’s grateful for her time at Chambers Bank. “I’ve worked with the best people,” Liles said. “The people have been the best part of my career. And Johnny Chambers has always been inspiring. He has always motivated us to do our best and treat our customers well.”
When asked what advice she would give to someone just starting their career in banking, she replied, “Be curious, take some initiative, and learn new things.” And above all else, “Treat people how you’d want to be treated.”
We wish Bekki the very best as she transitions full-time into her favorite job: Grandmother. “I want to spend more time with family, travel, work in the yard, and garden. I’m looking forward to being able to just pick up and go somewhere whenever I want.”
Thank you, Bekki!