Universal Associate Kevin Stuckey works with a client at Ridge View Bank.
Edmee CR Hasler
edmee@mainstreetnewspapers.com
Ridge View Bank in Salem recently marked its one-year anniversary on Feb. 13, with a week-long celebration, offering treats like cupcakes, donuts, sandwiches and merchandise to its valued clients and potential future customers.
President Carrie McConnell and Jacob Thomas, assistant community office manager joke around in the lobby.
Reflecting on the journey, Carrie McConnell, president of the Ridge View Bank, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received from the community. “Our Ridge View branch, being our very first, posed some uncertainties initially. But the unique layout, resembling more of a welcoming coffee shop atmosphere rather than a traditional bank, has been very well received,” she said.
The unconventional approach, devoid of a teller line, has garnered praise from clients who appreciate the friendly and personable environment. Carrie shared, “People love it. Sometimes they pop in just to say hi to the team on their way to the ATM. It’s been an interesting experience, and the support from the community has been tremendous.”
The bank’s commitment to giving back to the community has been evident throughout its first year. Carrie emphasized, “Community support is one of our pillars. We’ve invested heavily in technology to enhance our services while maintaining a personal touch.” McConnell likes to think of it as a “boutique style of banking with white glove, red carpet kind of service,” she said.
Looking ahead, Ridge View Bank aims to continue its momentum, focusing on small business and commercial banking. Carrie highlighted the bank’s investment in technology and emphasized their fully-staffed team of experienced professionals capable of providing comprehensive banking services.
Exciting developments lie ahead for Ridge View Bank, including the construction of a new headquarters at the former Red Lobster building in Roanoke, spanning 17,000 square feet. McConnell reflected on the challenges of naming the bank and designing its logo, expressing pride in the institution’s paperless operations and commitment to fostering personal connections with clients.
“We’re not just a bank; we’re a community bank,” Carrie affirmed. “We take pride in serving diverse segments of the population, from veterans to those seeking financial education. We do encourage people to come in with kids, our goal is to be the family’s bank, catering to the unique needs of each individual.”
As Ridge View Bank celebrates its first anniversary, the commitment to providing exceptional service remains unwavering. McConnell expressed gratitude for her dedicated team and the continued support from the community, emphasizing the importance of staying connected and responsive to the evolving needs of their clientele.
With a blend of cutting-edge technology and personalized service, Ridge View Bank looks forward to many more years of success as a trusted financial partner in the Salem community and beyond.
