Jackie Reses has had an impressive career, moving from private equity at Goldman Sachs to becoming a bank owner.
It's remarkable to consider how recent history has changed for women in banking. Just over fifty years ago, women often needed a male co-signer to open a bank account. Today, there are 4,236 FDIC-insured banks in the U.S., yet only 13 are owned by women, according to Bankrate.
Reses always aspired to own a bank. While her peers played with Barbies in glamorous settings, she preferred to role-play as a bank teller. Now, as Chair and CEO of Lead Bank in Kansas City, she’s dedicated to providing banking services for innovators. “We’re going to transform banking and enhance the experience for people in the U.S. in both visible and subtle ways,” she asserts.
Her early experience in private equity at Goldman Sachs equipped her with skills to build exceptional teams. Reses recalls, “I learned about excellence, teamwork, and how to surround myself with talented individuals. It broadened my perspective on a global scale.” After two decades at Goldman, she transitioned to the tech sector as Chief Development Officer at Square.
During her time at Square, she discovered the importance of supporting small businesses. She witnessed how a well-structured lending product could empower communities. “Access to small loans is crucial for small businesses aiming to grow. Capital constraints often hinder their progress,” Reses explains.
Now leading Lead Bank, she emphasizes the necessity for companies to have a compliant financial infrastructure. She takes great pride in being part of one of the largest women-owned banks in the country.
“While we serve everyone, I'm particularly proud of our diverse executive team and board. Our organization reflects inclusivity, and we aim to remain one of the foremost women-owned banks in the U.S. for years ahead,” Reses shares.
