The Right Opportunity to Grow a Career in Dunn County

Jesse Jenson, AVP/Ag & Commercial Lender for Independence State Bank, is building a career in Dunn County by serving the local business and agricultural community. Jesse assists customers in finding the right loan products that fit their operation’s needs. “Every operation, whether it’s a dairy farm or a retail store, will more than likely have a financing need. My goal is to always be the bridge that supports them along the way, so they can reach the goals they set out to achieve” said Jesse.

Coming Home to Dunn County

Prior to working for Independence State Bank, Jesse was employed for another company on Wisconsin’s east coast.  While successful, there was always a draw to come home to Elk Mound. When commercial lender position became available, it was the right opportunity at the right time. “I knew a lot about the bank, the people who would become my colleagues, and what the bank meant to the community. In the end, it was a very easy decision to move back to Elk Mound.”

We wanted to learn more about how moving to Dunn County benefited Jesse’s career. “Relocating back to this area and accepting this position has opened up a lot of doors for me. No matter what part of the world you work in, networking is crucial to career success, but it takes people who really care about you and your future to really make a difference and there is no shortage of people in this area to help you get to where you want be.”

Here is more of what Jesse had to say about living and working in Dunn County -

Q:           Have you received any assistance, incentives or support?

A:            After being hired, I immediately began taking online courses and have even had some in-class experience. Independence State Bank has been a wonderful company to work for. They take training their employees seriously. The best experience has been the hands on, day-to-day, real life experience. I have had a wonderful support system both within the company and from our business partners.   

Q:           What are your future goals?

A:            My long-term goals involve growing with Independence State Bank. I want to continue to learn, take on more responsibilities, and contribute as much as I can. In my opinion, working for a smaller company, if successful, can allow for more opportunities and upward mobility.  My ultimate goal is to have as much of a positive impact on the community as I can. Whether it’s sitting on the town board or coaching youth sports, just for a couple examples.

Q:           Is there anything the community can do to support you and to help you achieve them?

A:            The biggest thing the community can do is spread the word. In a small town the word can obviously get around fast, but I hope everyone I work with has been pleased with the service they received and spread the word about their experience.

Q:           What other things are you involved in?

A:            I recently accepted a seat on the Dunn County Economic Development Corporation board and was awarded this opportunity through networking efforts. The Dunn County EDC is a great organization to be a part of that will help me reaching my goals of making a difference within the community. I also volunteer for Junior Achievement and teach their courses to our local High School and Middle School students.  This past June my family hosted the Dunn County Dairy Breakfast promotion and through that was able to meet a few people and decided to join the Dunn County Dairy Breakfast committee. I look forward to being part of that organization and promoting the importance of agriculture. Outside of work and volunteering, I enjoy spending my time with family and friends. I’m a huge sports fan and am your typical Wisconsinite and spend countless hours following the Packers, Bucks, Badger, and Brewers. In the summer, I love to spend my spare time on the golf course. It’s a game that I have always had a passion for and one that challenges you to the max!

Q:           Why do you enjoy living here?

A:            There are a number of reasons I enjoy living in this area. 1. The people, it doesn’t matter where you go or what you do; you’re going to be overwhelmed by the friendliness of people. 2. The food, there are a number of places in the area where you’re served absolute deliciousness. 3. The golfing scene, there are a number of well-kept golf courses in the area which is important to me considering the fact I’m a huge golf nut. 4. The music, in the summer there always seems to be some sort of outdoor concert taking place. It’s not just one genre either, no matter your taste; you’ll find an event to enjoy. One of my favorite things about this area is the landscape… it really is a beautiful place to lay down some roots.

Q:           If you could describe the opportunities for young professionals in Dunn County what words would you use?

A:            Growing opportunities. It seems like there’s always another company coming in and investing in this area. I think the people of this area have a good reputation when it comes to work ethic which obviously appeals to businesses seeking growth. In my opinion, the Dunn County area is only going to grow more which will only increase the opportunities for young professionals looking to start their careers.