NEA Women in Business: Dana Batterton

Dana Batterton
Executive Vice President/Chief Risk Officer
FNBC Bank
Residence: Salem
Education: Bachelor’s degree in math, University of Arkansas Little Rock

What was your dream job and why? The dream was to move back to our hometown in Fulton County and raise our family. The dream job of being a FNBC Community banker happened by accident and some really good luck. FNBC was hiring and I needed a job. I cannot imagine being anywhere or working with anyone other than my FNBC family and community. It has been my dream job for 35 years.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far? I’ve had the pleasure to experience many great moments with FNBC. Having the opportunity and being involved in the growth of the bank and working with several talented community bankers. It is a fantastic journey.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? Continue being involved in the growth path of FNBC, our communities and most importantly our employees. Rising interest rates have been an unprecedented challenge. We’ve never dealt with rate increases like this before. It’s good on the deposit side, but it’s a unique challenge in other ways but we are finding ways to deal with it.

How do spend your time away from work? What are your hobbies? Relaxing and spending time with family and traveling when we get the chance.

What advice would you give young women who are at the beginning of their careers? Love what you do and don’t settle for anything less than what drives your passion. Remember to be kind to yourself, a cheerleader for others, and be curious – don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Can you share how COVID impacted your business or organization? Several technology and operational practices we implemented in early 2020 out of necessity have proven to be more effective and efficient and remain in place today.

What character traits do you feel have benefited you in your success? Determination. Never giving up and being open to finding creative solutions.

If you have a bucket list, what are the top three things on it? I always wanted to learn the art of quilting, have a Pinterest-inspired greenhouse and explore every state. We are heading to Maine later this year and we plan to visit New Hampshire along the way. In March, we plan to go to Alaska. I’ve always wanted to see the Northern Lights. I know it will be cold, but I’m excited to see them. Every state has beautiful scenery and we want to take it all in.

What’s the last good book you read? I read a lot for work, but for pleasure the most recent was re-reading “To Kill A Mockingbird.” It’s one of my all-time favorites.

What’s your favorite app at the moment? FNBC mobile app, of course! I also love to flip through Pinterest.

Who have been mentors who’ve influenced your professional career? I have been fortunate to have had many people with a positive influence in my life and my career. … I think of my mom and my granny as two of my favorite influencers. Two strong women who believed and advocated that you can do anything you choose to do when you put your heart and mind into it.