Whitney M. Kilgo
Marketing Director
Morris Bank
Dublin, GA
Group 6 rep., GBA Marketing Committee
Q: What was your first job, and was there a lesson you learned there that you still use today?
A: My first job as a sixteen-year-old was at a local jewelry store in town. At the time, it was my dream job and where I really began learning the fundamentals of local marketing and grew a strong appreciation for small business owners.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your career journey. What drew you to bank marketing?
A: I began my career working in Nashville, Tennessee at the headquarters of Warby Parker, a startup online eyecare retailer. My role was focused on Customer Experience Management, and after several years with the company I was ready to take a career turn towards Marketing. I was offered a healthcare marketing role for Fairview Park Hospital in my hometown of Dublin, allowing me to move back to Georgia and reestablished relationships within the community.
Being raised in a family of bankers is a likely factor that drew me to the banking industry. As a third generation in banking, I have always felt a close connection to the industry and particularly to the bankers within our community. It was through those connections and past work experiences that allowed me to join the team here roughly 9 months ago. I am thrilled to be here and can truly say that I am constantly learning and growing each day.
Q: When you think about the future of the banking industry, what makes you hopeful and what makes you concerned?
A: The future of the banking industry, much like other industries during this time, is facing the challenge of adaptation. I see this inevitability both with excitement and concern. This season we are facing will revitalize the way we do banking and will allow us to optimize digital and mobile services for customers, which I see as a positive step of technological convenience.
However, the automation of these services brings concerns for those who, for example, lack financial literacy or are simply looking for the best rate instead of personal loyalty to a bank. Relationships are key to how we do business in small towns, and if those relationships are moving towards digital platforms, it forces us to rethink and readjust how we communicate and educate our customers to make the best financial decisions.
Q: If you could thank someone for becoming the professional you are today, who would it be and why?
A: The person I am today is largely due to the support and positive impact my parents and family have had on my life. I’ve been blessed to have excellent role models to instill hard work, dedication, and compassion in me that has a direct effect on my professional accomplishments. My father has over 36 years of banking experience and has always made an effort to serve others and make a positive difference in our community.
Q: What would someone be surprised to learn about you?
A: I am a newlywed! My husband and I married over the Labor Day weekend this year. Most people still know me by the last name of Miller, but I’m settling into my new name, Kilgo.