Diane Owens started working at the Bank of Amity (now Chambers Bank) on July 5, 1983. “Ms. Cleda Olds hired me to be her personal secretary, but I never spent one day in that position,” Owens said. “I ran the drive-through window and the proof machine. I would open accounts at the drive-through!”
In the early days, the bank had one computer, and Owens was the only one who knew how to use it. “I entered all new accounts, changes and loans. We transmitted everything online to First Commercial in Little Rock, and everyday a courier would bring our trial balance and checks. On the first day of the month, we would stay late and put all the statements together to mail out.”
Most processes were manual in the early 80s, so Owens learned quickly how everything balanced. “Our loan documents were kept a shoe box!” she said. “Customer service was always at the top of the list, so that hasn’t changed. The biggest change was going on the Nicola system. Thankfully people like Vickie (Rounsaville), Pat (Novinger), Lisa (Holbrook) and Jim Ray (Holbrook) were there to see us through.”
During the past 40 years, Owens has held many positions at the bank. “When Johnny (Chambers) purchased the bank, I was promoted to VP & Cashier, then President & Loan Officer, and finally HR,” she said. “I love working with numbers, so I really enjoyed preparing the budget, call report and self-exam for Bank of Amity. I got to work with the Board of Directors and in loan collections. I have also been the CRA Officer.”
Owens now serves as the bank’s SVP of Human Resources, a position she’s held since 2006. “It has been a blessing to hold so many different positions, and I was able to continue to expand my knowledge in banking throughout the years,” she said. “I appreciate all that Johnny and the entire Chambers family have done for me over the years. I was given the opportunity to go to LSU Banking School, which was a lot of fun. I have made so many wonderful life-long friends and wonderful memories over the years.”
Owens is grateful for all the encouragement and mentoring she’s had throughout her 40 years at Chambers. “Trisha Sikes and Mike Donnell were wonderful mentors and taught me so much in the HR field,” Owens said. "Mike encouraged me to get my SHRM CP certification, and I appreciate all that he has done for me.”
When asked what advice she would give to someone just starting their career in banking, she replied, “Always be willing to learn new things. There are always going to be changes, so learn to adapt. The main thing is to enjoy what you do and give the best customer service!
Thank you, Diane, for 40 years of exceptional service to our customers and employees.