Jon Hummel
Vice president, commercial banking, West Bank
Age: 37
Wife: Shanda Hummel
Children: Jackson Hummel (14), Chase Hummel (10)
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
I have served on 10 different boards in various capacities.
I was named Up & Coming Banker of the Year in 2022 by the Community Bankers of Iowa.
I was nominated to the American Bankers Association Emerging Leaders Council, a national board that selects one individual from each state.
I have been promoted eight times in my 15 years of banking.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
My biggest passion is being the best role model I can be to our two boys. I want to show them how to be a good person by teaching them life skills and paving a road for their future success like my parents did for me growing up. I have an amazing team at home with my wife and boys, and they support me in all of my endeavors. This allows me to give back to the community that I love and know things will be taken care of at home.
What are your goals in your role at work?
As a community banker, it is essential to get to know my clients and build lifelong relationships with them. This goes beyond tailoring comprehensive financial solutions for them but also being a referral source for them to connect them to like-minded people and providing excellent customer service.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
As the father of two boys, children's causes have always been at the top of my list. Some are much less fortunate, and to give back my time and talent and make a difference in their lives is what makes me the happiest.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
Both of my grandfathers were extremely social people. Both of them were also named “citizen of the year” of their communities. Watching them work a room, and how it impacted not only their careers but also their daily lives, was inspiring to me. I have been called “Mr. Never-Met-A-Stranger” more than once.
What are your aspirations for the future?
After starting my career as a teller while I was finishing my accounting degree at the University of Northern Iowa, I decided I wanted to learn the banking industry from the ground up. My journey has led me to continue to grow and learn, and I ultimately want to be in executive management of banking.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Be a sponge. Identify a mentor, don't be afraid to ask a ton of questions and never stop learning. When your boss asks you to do something, always say “yes” and do it with a smile. Even if you don't know how, say “yes” and figure it out. Always give 110% effort with everything you do. Lastly, take great notes!
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
In my line of work, I hear from folks in all types of industries. One common theme is affordable housing in the Des Moines metro. With interest rates creeping up over the last couple of years, rents have vastly increased and so has the cost to buy a home. Access to housing that is affordable will not only improve people's lives by giving them more for discretionary spending but also provide more of a draw for more people to relocate to Central Iowa.
What's one fun fact about you?
I'm an avid golfer and have had three hole-in-ones.
Hobbies: Working out, golf and coaching our boys in their youth sports.
One word that describes you: Persistent.
What is your favorite local restaurant? Simon's.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “Suits” (TV show on Netflix).
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
If you don't see me at a gala or networking event, you can find the Hummel family at a youth sporting event or at Wakonda Club!