At Andover State Bank, we believe banking is personal—and the people behind the bank are a big part of what makes it that way. This month, we’re introducing you to Brian Cook, Commercial Lender at ASB.
Since joining Andover State Bank in July 2020, Brian has worn a few different hats around the bank. Today, he helps customers with their lending needs, but throughout his banking career, one thing has remained constant: a commitment to building relationships and earning trust.
A Career Built on Relationships
When asked what he enjoys most about his job, Brian’s answer is simple: trust.
“Since financial matters are often private and personal, when a customer comes to me with a financial need, and asks for my advice or assistance, I know I have earned their trust.”
For Brian, being a banker isn’t simply about processing a loan or completing a transaction. It’s about getting to know customers, understanding their needs, and being someone they can turn to when they have questions.
That personal connection is one thing Brian values most about community banking. When customers know the people behind their bank, conversations become more personal, and financial decisions feel less transactional.
From Technician to Commercial Lender
Brian didn’t take the traditional path into banking.
About a year after his daughter was born, Brian decided it was time for a career change—one that would allow him to spend more time with his family. He traded his job as an AT&T technician, where his days could involve everything from telephone poles to crawlspaces, for a career in banking.
He started in treasury management, working on the wire transfer desk, before moving into retail banking. That’s where he was introduced to lending.
And he found his calling.
Working directly with customers and learning about their financial needs sparked an interest in lending that eventually led Brian to his current role at ASB.
Sometimes a change in direction leads you exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Six Years of Community Banking at ASB
Brian joined Andover State Bank in July 2020 as part of the retail banking team before moving into commercial lending.
When asked to describe his experience at ASB, Brian summed it up in four words:
“Community banking at its finest.”
One of the things Brian appreciates most about ASB is the variety that comes with being a community bank. On any given day, he might help a customer with questions about a checking account, assist someone with a safe deposit box, or help someone secure a loan to purchase their first car.
It’s about more than one product or one transaction. It’s about being there for customers throughout the different stages of their financial lives.
It’s About More Than the Rate
When it comes to lending, Brian believes there’s more to choosing a bank than simply finding the lowest interest rate.
Rates are important, but he believes the true value of a banking relationship becomes clear when life doesn’t go according to plan.
Any bank can make a loan. But when you need someone you know and trust to help you work through a difficult situation, that’s when a relationship really matters.
A loan is part of a customer’s bigger financial picture, and having someone in your corner can make all the difference. Whether you’re purchasing a car, starting a business, investing in your next opportunity, or navigating an unexpected expense, having a banker who takes the time to understand your situation can make the process feel more personal.
Life Outside the Bank
When Brian isn’t helping ASB customers, he likes to stay busy.
Depending on the day, you might find him riding his bike along the Redbud Trail, relaxing on the patio while smoking a brisket, or making music with friends during jam night.
And yes, we think those hobbies say a lot about Brian. He enjoys being outdoors, spending time with people, and making time for the things he enjoys outside of work.
Getting to Know Brian
Brian’s story is one of the many that make up the ASB team. Our employees come from different backgrounds and bring their unique experiences to the bank, but they all share a commitment to taking care of our customers and being part of the communities we serve.
For Brian, that means building relationships based on trust and being there when customers need him.
We’re proud to have Brian on the ASB team and even more proud of the relationships he continues to build with our customers.
Next time you’re at ASB, stop by and say hello to Brian. You might even get a good brisket recommendation while you’re there.
