The Lifelong Journey of Leadership: Insights on Professional Growth, Staff Development, and Cultivating the Next Generation of Banking Leaders

By Paul Northway, president and CEO of American National Bank Fox Cities and the 2025-2026 WBA Chair

I’ve had the opportunity to work with an executive coach and can honestly say that it has been life-changing. Throughout the journey, I have received feedback that has allowed me to grow and become a more consistent leader. I have learned the value of being vulnerable, which has helped me develop authentic relationships. A coach can help you identify your blind spots so that you can be more reflective about what you are saying and doing, ensuring they are aligned. Leadership is a journey; it isn’t something you achieve — it’s something you practice every day, even on the days you fall short.

My Own Journey
I was fortunate to work for banks that supported my growth. I had the opportunity to obtain my MBA and complete the Graduate School of Banking, and I also took advantage of attending WBA schools such as Commercial Lending. I wanted to keep learning and had mentors who supported me through that journey. Today, I strive to lead with a spirit of servant leadership — focusing on helping others grow, supporting their goals, and empowering them to become the best version of themselves.

A Commitment to Continuous Growth
Our industry’s constant and fast-paced evolution means we must stay on top of new regulations, advancing technology, and changing customer needs. I realized early in my career that you need to read a lot to keep up with the constant change in our industry. Regulatory change requires an understanding of how rulemaking and laws impact how we do business, particularly how we can lessen the burden on our clients. WBA’s Government Relations and Legal teams help members sort through and understand changing regulations.

Emerging technology is another trend that requires leaders to focus on what makes sense for their employees and clients while avoiding the temptation to chase shiny objects. Artificial intelligence, for example, is rapidly transforming how we analyze data, detect fraud, and enhance customer service — but it also demands thoughtful consideration around security, ethics, and implementation. The recent WBA Bank Technology & Security Summit helped members gain insight into these important topics and how to apply them responsibly within their institutions.

Developing & Retaining Talent
We have a responsibility to sponsor the growth of our staff by helping them develop the skills needed to navigate the complexity of a career in banking. When leaders focus on helping employees achieve their personal and professional goals, I’ve witnessed transformation — staff become more engaged, relationships strengthen, and commitment to the team deepens. People want to work for companies that provide stretch assignments and opportunities to lead, grow, and learn from mistakes. Potential is only realized when there is a commitment to growth, and the outcome is a stronger bank that continues to meet the needs of clients and the community.

I’ve always loved the quote: “What happens if we invest in developing our people and they leave us?’’ A good CEO will respond, “What happens if we don’t, and they stay?’’ This philosophy is especially critical now. Our industry is at a pivotal point, with younger talent entering our banks who need the experience, education, and confidence to become our future leaders.

WBA’s commitment to education helps meet this need. Whether it’s a webinar with actionable tips for frontline employees, a multi-day school focused on a particular area of banking, or a conference with multiple learning tracks and networking opportunities, WBA is constantly refining its professional development offerings. Visit wisbank.com/education to learn more.

Final Thoughts
Our industry is highly technical, and we naturally focus on developing those hard skills. But it’s equally critical that we help people grow their soft skills — the ones that help them understand themselves and those around them. Leaders are developed, not born. That’s why I’m excited about the emerging leaders program our bank recently launched, where five up-and-coming leaders are focusing on emotional intelligence, communication, adaptability, and teamwork. As I watch members of our team grow into their potential, I’m reminded that the best investment any bank can make isn’t in technology or infrastructure — it’s in people. Leadership is not a destination, but a lifelong journey, and the future of our industry depends on how many of us are willing to walk that path alongside the next generation.