Employee Spotlight: Ali Pelletier, SVP – Retail Banking Administrator 

An Unexpected Career: Growing with Bank of New Hampshire 

Sometimes the best career paths are the ones you never planned. 

For Ali Pelletier, SVP – Retail Banking Administration Officer, that certainly rings true. What began as a part-time job at Bank of New Hampshire (BNH) evolved into a rewarding career spanning two decades, multiple leadership roles and countless opportunities for growth. 

A Summer Job That Changed Everything 

BNH was Ali’s first “real” job. While still in high school, she applied for a part-time position as a drive-up Bank Services Representative (BSR), working a few hours after school and every Saturday. 

“Back when I was in high school, I visited a branch to open my first checking account,” she recalls. ” I asked for an application because I needed a summer job. I had no idea what the banking world was like, and I didn’t even think they would consider hiring someone in high school. It was one of those strange, life-changing coincidences.” 

After graduating from high school, she balanced multiple responsibilities, including working mornings at the bank while pursuing a nursing degree in the evenings, and waitressing on weekends. When a full-time position became available, she made a decision that would ultimately shape her future. 

She accepted the role with plans to save money before returning to school, but something unexpected happened along the way. 

Discovering a Passion for Banking 

A supportive manager who mentored her encouraged Ali to become involved in projects beyond her day-to-day responsibilities. Through those experiences, she gained exposure to different areas of the bank and began to see the possibilities for a long-term career. 

“The more engaged I became in my role and the bank as a whole, the more I realized I could make a career in banking and really enjoy it,” she says. 

Eager to learn, she immersed herself in every opportunity available and steadily advanced through the organization. Her career path included roles as Training Assistant, Senior BSR, Banking Office Specialist, Branch Manager and Regional Team Lead before she was promoted to VP, Retail Banking Operations Officer in 2020, overseeing daily operations across the bank’s entire footprint. 

As her responsibilities expanded beyond operations, her role evolved into VP, Retail Administration Officer. In 2025, Ali was promoted to SVP – Retail Banking Administrator. 

The Power of Support and Mentorship 

When asked about professional development, she points to the people who have invested in her success throughout her career journey. 

“There is not enough time to cover all the ways Bank of New Hampshire has supported me,” she says. “I was lucky to have had amazing people to work with who advocated for me throughout my career.” 

From her first manager, who challenged her to step outside her comfort zone, to the many leaders and colleagues who have trusted her abilities and encouraged her growth, she credits much of her success to the culture of support throughout the organization. 

BNH has also supported her ongoing education and development through college courses, industry certifications and professional training. 

“As I have moved up in my career, I am continuously met with amazing coworkers and managers who trust my opinion and invest in my growth through coaching, training and new opportunities.” 

A Defining Moment 

One achievement stands out as a pivotal moment early in her career. 

While working as a BSR, she was selected as the bank’s Quality Service Professional of the Year — an award recognizing exceptional service and dedication. The award included a cash prize and dinner with the CEO. 

For a frontline employee just beginning her career, the recognition was both meaningful and motivating. 

“This was around the time I decided to fully invest in my banking career,” she says. “Winning this award felt like a sign that I had made the right decision to change career paths and that I was valued.” 

What Keeps Her Motivated 

After many years with the bank, one thing continues to stand out above all else: the people. 

“The customers are loyal and kind, and the employees from every department are truly passionate about what they do.” 

That combination of dedicated colleagues and loyal customers continues to make each day rewarding. 

One Word: Unexpected 

If she had to summarize her career journey in a single word, it would be “unexpected.” 

As a self-described Type-A teenager, she had a carefully mapped-out plan for her future. Banking was never part of that vision. 

Yet looking back, she wouldn’t change a thing. 

“If you had told me when I first started that I would be where I am today, I never would have believed you,” she says. “But I am certainly glad it worked out the way it did.” 

Advice for the Next Generation 

For those just beginning their careers, she offers two simple but powerful pieces of advice. 

First, ask good questions. 

“Understand why you are doing what you are doing and why it matters,” she says. “It will give you all the information you need to make good decisions and bring value to your role.” 

She believes curiosity and a willingness to seek clarification are essential traits for long-term success. 

Second, embrace hard things. 

Whether it’s helping an upset customer, tackling a difficult project or volunteering for a task others avoid, embracing hard things create opportunities to learn, improve and stand out. 

“The only way to build true confidence and grow is to do the things that scare you or are difficult.” 

Her own career is proof that when you remain curious, embrace opportunities and stay open to the unexpected, a simple summer job can become a lifelong, fulfilling career.