Laura Benson, CAMS

Experience

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  Provident Bank

  Feb 2001 - May 2009

  Assistant Bank Manager
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  M&T Bank

  May 2009 - Jan 2013

  Assistant Branch Manager

  Responsible for assisting the Branch Manager in administering and directing employee coaching, sales / business development, marketing, and operations of the branch. Assistant Branch Managers serve as a proactive team member in the M&T Branch system. Assistant Branch Managers play an integral role in achieving branch goals. This is done by both coaching and modeling the following behaviors: acknowledging each customer as they enter the branch, identifying and referring sales opportunities by uncovering financial needs and presenting all options to customers, and following up as needed. In addition, Assistant Managers also ensure the operational requirements set for risk are maintained. Essential Position Responsibilities LEADERSHIP Supervise all branch operations in absence of Branch Manager. Assist branch management regarding new hires, including training and coaching as necessary. Confer with the Branch Manager regarding new hires, resolving personnel problems, including: hiring, scheduling of employment hours, monitor expenses and performance ratings. Write and deliver performance appraisals or provide input to Branch Manager. Provide ongoing guidance and training to branch personnel on operating/platform problems, handling of exceptions, adjustments, and sales. Ensure efficiency and compliance with operational and security policies. RELATIONSHIP BANKING Identify financial needs and present all appropriate options working cooperatively with appropriate business partners. Proactively bundle products and services as appropriate. Build new customer relationships by proactively “on-boarding” through frequent interactions during the first 90 days of the relationship. Support and lead branch in achieving its customer retention, acquisition and growth goals. Support will include achieving personal sales goals (including Investment/Insurance revenue) Show less

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  Howard Bank

  Jan 2013 - Feb 2022

  Develops, administers and monitors programs for compliance with Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) laws, regulations and rules governing operations and product offerings. Informs and educates appropriate personnel, the Chief Compliance Officer, Senior Management Team and the Board of Directors of all BSA compliance responsibilities. Ensure Executive Management, Chief Compliance Officer, Senior Management and Board of Directors are continuously informed of all aspects of the Bank’s BSA compliance activities, including an evaluation of its relative risk exposure related to BSA compliance. Reviews Bank BSA policy and procedures for compliance. Show less Monitor controls to ensure processes are in compliance with all regulatory requirements. Process key reports on a daily basis that track patterns and unusual activity. Manage alerts and patterns while investigating and evaluating unusual activity. Conduct necessary processes to protect the bank from monetary losses or regulatory citations by audit reviews. Support the bank’s organizational structure and provide immediate and efficient resolution of customer issues and demonstrate behavior that endorses the bank’s core values. Show less Assist the branch manager in leading a branch team and managing the daily operations of the branch.Acquire, build and retain valuable customer relationships. Key Skills and Abilities Demonstrated track record of sales in a bank environment.Assume a leadership role in the efficient management of daily branch operationsBasic knowledge of personal and small business deposit products including cash management analysisStrong interpersonal skills to work effectively with small businesses, their owners and other professionals as well as traditional consumersStrong oral and written communication skillsCommitment to community involvement Ability to work with a personal computer Provide training, coaching and feedback to associates Show less

  • Bank Secrecy Act/OFAC Officer

    Mar 2016 - Feb 2022

  • Risk Management Specialist

    Apr 2014 - Mar 2016

  • Assistant Branch Manager

    Jan 2013 - Apr 2014
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  CFG Bank

  Feb 2022 - now

  BSA Officer - Cannabis