Heritage Bank Welcomes Michelle Allen as Retail Operations Manager
Welcome to Heritage, Michelle! We are proud to announce the hiring of veteran local banker Michelle Allen as Vice President - Retail Branch Manager...
We are pleased to announce the promotion of Jenny Bennett to Assistant Vice President – Loan Specialist/Loan Officer.
Jenny plays an essential role in the bank’s lending operations, supporting loan officers, ensuring compliance, and helping loans move efficiently from application through closing. She works closely with borrowers, lenders, and third parties to coordinate documentation, review loan files, and maintain accuracy throughout the process.
In addition to her operational expertise, Jenny regularly assists customers in person, by phone, email, and chat. She will also serve as the primary contact for walk-in loan customers at the Lebanon Branch, providing knowledgeable and friendly service.
Jenny’s dedication, attention to detail, and team-oriented approach embody Heritage Bank’s Core Values of Service, Professionalism, Excellence, and Teamwork. Her promotion reflects the important role she plays in delivering a smooth and reliable lending experience for our Neighbors.
Tell us a little about your banking journey.
Funny story—growing up, I wanted to be a teacher, a hairstylist, or a veterinary assistant. I was very involved in FFA and had the opportunity to attend an ag conference. A banker happened to travel with our group, and during the drive, he asked me what I planned to do after graduating high school. At the time, I was cleaning houses to help get myself through school. He asked if I’d ever considered working at a bank, and I said, “Sure!”
Within a week, my ag teacher received an email asking me to complete an application. I was hired as a teller and started the very day of my interview—23 years ago. I worked as a teller for about a year and a half before getting the opportunity to advance to a loan assistant. I’ve been a loan assistant for 21 years and spent 15 of those right here at Heritage Bank.
How have your experiences over the years shaped how you serve Neighbors today?
I’ve always had a heart for serving others. I want people to be happy and to trust me to be their banker. There isn’t one specific experience that shaped how I serve—it’s more about how I try to treat people every single day. I often think about the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
My goal is for customers to leave the bank telling everyone that Heritage Bank is the best bank in town and that no matter their needs or issues, they feel taken care of before they walk out the door.
When you’re not at the bank, how do you like to spend your time?
On the farm, taking care of our cows, ducks, pigs, and chickens. We also spend a lot of time at church. My husband is the pastor of Lifepoint Conway Church, so we’re very involved in the Conway community—loving on people and pouring into them whenever we can.
I’m also the President of the Lebanon Host Lions Club, where I enjoy finding new ways to get involved and give back to the Lebanon community.
When I’m not working, at church, or on the farm, you’ll most likely find me taking my kids to volleyball or baseball practice. In my free time, I love to sew and craft.
A few fun facts:
• Black coffee only
• Definitely an early bird
• Summer is my favorite season. I love the beach and the river.
• My favorite show right now is the new season of Heartland.
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