Wisconsin Bankers Association Recognized as a Top Place to Work
By Hannah Flanders
Collaborative, flexible, innovative, and rewarding. These are the characteristics often used to describe a great place to work. It is estimated that, on average, Americans will spend approximately one third of their lives at work or engaging in work-related activities. So, for many people, it is important to find a workplace that fosters a supportive and dynamic environment, where employees not only are empowered to contribute meaningfully but feel a personal sense of value and respect.
In March, the ‘Wisconsin State Journal’ recognized 70 companies and organizations — including the Wisconsin Bankers Association — as the Greater Madison area’s Top Workplaces for 2024. This recognition, based solely on employee feedback, is gathered through a third-party survey administered by Energage LLC. The survey captures workplace experience themes that drive engagement, including employees who feel valued, respected and supported, enabled to grow, closely aligned to the mission of the organization, and empowered to execute.
“As a business service provider, our employees are at the heart of everything we do,” said Rose Oswald Poels, WBA president and CEO. “Being named a Top Workplace reflects the positive contributions of our entire team, and we are very honored by this recognition.”
Although voluntary turnover has returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, the talent shortage remains pertinent across industries. For all organizations — including WBA — ensuring team members feel valued and motivated is crucial in retaining talent and fostering a positive workplace culture. By prioritizing employee satisfaction and investing in their growth and well-being, WBA not only inspires our team to do their best work but also strengthens our ability to attract and retain skilled professionals.
With a mission to advocate for, educate, and support a membership of over 30,000 bankers in Wisconsin, WBA recognizes that in order to achieve our goals, investments in the satisfaction of employees are paramount. With a tight-knit office of just 35 Madison-area employees, WBA values the sense of community and connection among staff.
Just as the Association encourages our banker members to engage in personal and professional growth opportunities, WBA staff take part in similar activities throughout the year. Ongoing training and professional development, involvement with community service projects and fundraising events, and staff outings and celebrations are just a few ways in which the Association cultivates a motivated and engaged team.
With a nearly equal number of individuals who have been with the Association for at least five years to those who are newer to the Association, the WBA staff offers a unique blend of experience and perspectives that foster a dynamic and innovative atmosphere. At the same time, it also necessitates constant review of how the Association is meeting the evolving needs of our employees, ensuring that policies, programs, and initiatives remain relevant and impactful.
As such, WBA staff have the opportunity to be involved in the employee-led innovation and employee engagement teams. These teams were created with the goals of increasing employee satisfaction, productivity, and well-being; remaining on the cutting-edge of new practices and technology adoption; and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. In addition to taking part in initiatives that promote collaboration and idea sharing among teams, all WBA staff members are included in monthly meetings discussing relevant developments and goals. Including staff in these regular meetings not only ensures transparency and alignment but further promotes a sense of ownership in the work of
the Association.
“Open communication remains a top priority for WBA,” says Oswald Poels. “Just as our members receive relevant updates through our publications to enhance their on-the-job knowledge and decision-making, we ensure that our team members are informed, engaged, and equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to excel in their roles and best serve bankers in Wisconsin.”
In addition to receiving esteemed Top Workplace recognition, Oswald Poels has been selected as the winner of the Leadership award in the small business category. Again prompted by employee feedback, the award recognizes WBA’s president and CEO for her exemplary leadership, specifically related to fostering a culture of empowerment, innovation, and inclusivity within WBA.
Since taking the reins in 2011, Oswald Poels has led a significant remodel at the WBA office in Madison to modernize the facilities and introduced sit-stand workstations and flex spaces throughout the building; implemented optional work-from-home Fridays; and developed a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) employee resource group (also available to WBA-member bankers); among other initiatives aimed at enhancing employee satisfaction and well-being. It is evident that under Oswald Poels’ leadership, employees are not just valued, but enabled to thrive both personally and professionally.
“As the business landscape continues to evolve, WBA remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs not only of our members, but of our employees as well,” Oswald Poels says. “By embracing change, fostering a culture of learning, and investing in our greatest asset — our people — WBA continues to thrive as a leader within the industry and as a model for workplace excellence.”
