Employee Spotlight | Jennifer Downs – Retail Banking Trainer

Jennifer Downs’ Journey with Bank of New Hampshire

A career at Bank of New Hampshire (BNH) often becomes more than just a job─it evolves into a rewarding profession. For Jennifer Downs, her growth in our Retail division opened the door to becoming a Retail Banking Trainer, where she shares her knowledge and experience with others. In this Employee Spotlight, we celebrate her journey from Bank Services Representative to her current role.

From Bank Services Representative to Retail Banking Trainer

Jennifer joined BNH in 2006 as a Bank Services Representative (BSR) in our Ossipee office. After moving out of state in 2007, she returned in 2009 and re-joined the Ossipee team, where she advanced through the BSR skillsets. In 2021, she accepted a Banking Office Specialist role in the Dover office, and in 2022 she achieved her goal of becoming the Retail Banking Trainer.

“I have loved every position I have had at Bank of New Hampshire,” Jennifer shared.

In her current role, Jennifer educates the Retail staff on products, services and customer service through hands-on training. Her work ensures regulatory compliance, strengthens employee skills and enhances the customer experience. She also develops and maintains training materials, evaluates learning outcomes and collaborates with Retail management to identify and develop training programs that support organizational goals.

Why Bank of New Hampshire?

Jennifer was referred to BNH from her best friend, who worked in the Ossipee office and told her about an opening.

“I had no idea if I would like it or even be good at it, but I thought I would give it a try,” Jennifer said. “It’s the best decision I made! I loved being a Bank Services Representative and working with customers.”

Professional Growth

BNH has supported Jennifer’s growth and development throughout her career. She has completed classes through the Center for Financial Training, and in 2021, was selected to attend the Northern New England School of Banking.

Advancing to Retail Banking Trainer

When asked about her most memorial achievement at the bank, Jennifer said it was being offered the Retail Banking Trainer position─a role she always wanted but never felt confident to pursue.

“Getting out of my comfort zone was the absolute best thing I could have done for myself,” she added.

Working with the Retail Team

For Jennifer, the best part of working at BNH is the Retail Team. She finds fulfillment in teaching and motivating her colleagues to be their best.

A Fulfilling Career

When asked to describe her career in one word, Jennifer chose fulfilling.

“As a Bank Services Representative, you learn so many things and have to know a little bit about every department, so there is never a dull moment,” Jennifer said.

As a Retail Banking Trainer, she now meets new hires and coaches existing employees. “It is a fulfilling career,” she reflected.

Words of Advice for Aspiring Professionals

Jennifer encourages those starting out in their careers to work hard, stay focused and never give up. While challenges are inevitable, she offers this advice: “Failure is not the opposite of success. It’s part of success.”

At Bank of New Hampshire, we’re proud to highlight the diverse experiences, talents and journeys that make our team unique. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in our Employee Spotlight series as we continue celebrating the people who make BNH the best place to work.