Kearny Bank ChangeMakers program to provide women in business with mentorship, education, networking opportunities, and banking advice

For women conducting business in and around New Jersey, Kearny Bank wants to be an essential resource.

Already committed to providing comprehensive support to women in positions of business leadership, the bank has expanded that focus by establishing its Kearny Bank ChangeMakers initiative. The program’s focus is on making professional mentorship, education, networking opportunities, and banking advice available to women in business, including women entrepreneurs.

“We want Kearny Bank to be recognized as the community bank with the expertise to provide women with the best financial guidance, whether they’re a CEO of an established business or are in the early phases of running a start-up,” explains Veronica Ross, Kearny Bank Senior Vice President / Treasury Management Leader. “In short, we want women to know we’re here for them.”

Ross, who is providing senior oversight to Kearny Bank ChangeMakers, notes the effort will assist business novices with development of business plans and budgeting, and hosting events intended to foster networking. Eventually, there may be a regular newsletter and even a dedicated podcast.

The bank’s executives enthusiastically support the effort.

“We have the financial services, tools, physical infrastructure, and professional expertise to provide tremendous support to women in business,” says Anthony Bilotta, Kearny Bank’s Executive Vice President / Chief Banking Officer. “We’re excited about this opportunity to be a resource to individuals who, at a steadily accelerating rate, play a major role in our economy and society.”

Prior to establishment of Kearny Bank ChangeMakers, the bank conducted various types of research, including seeking input from current business clients. The feedback was invaluable in shaping the new program’s direction.

“We learned quite a bit simply by talking and asking questions,” explains Xenia Ambatzoglou, Kearny Bank ChangeMakers Leading Ambassador and Treasury Management Team Member. “One key determination we made is that women in business very much want access to essential information and opportunities to establish a network. So, to start, that’s what we’re focused on.”

In the short term, the bank will provide both female and male employees who express an interest with the knowledge and tools to serve as Kearny Bank ChangeMakers Ambassadors. Through dedicated instruction, they’ll be certified by the bank to interact directly with women who avail themselves of the new program. Training will be provided by a Rutgers University ICF (International Coaching Federation) Professional Certified Coach.

“One essential consideration is that women are often uncomfortable asking for assistance or support,” Ross observes. “Even among women who are successful leaders, there’s still a gender gap – and much of it has to do with hesitancy to take advantage of what’s readily available. We hope to help with that.”

About Kearny Bank

Combining the finest traditions of community banking with the industry’s latest, most effective financial products and services, Kearny Bank provides business and personal clients with the tools for success. Established back in 1884, and now operating from corporate offices in Fairfield, NJ, Kearny Bank’s footprint covers most of New Jersey, along with Brooklyn and Staten Island. Additional information is available at kearnybank.com or by visiting Kearny Bank’s social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.