From Jelly Donuts to Banking: Mary’s Journey to BNH  

Sometimes the best career paths are the ones that evolve along the way. 

For Mary Henderson, Vice President – Rochester Banking Office Manager, a career in banking began unexpectedly — sparked by a simple realization while working at Dunkin’ Donuts. More than four decades later, that first step has led to leadership roles, professional growth, community involvement and a lasting connection to Bank of New Hampshire (BNH). 

From Donuts to Banking 

Mary’s career journey began in an unlikely place: Dunkin’ Donuts. 

“I was really tired of smelling like a donut and having jelly on my shoes every day!” she recalls. 

While making deposits at the bank, Mary became interested in what was happening behind the counter. That curiosity sparked an interest in banking, and in 1982, she began her career as a teller at a local savings bank. 

From there, she steadily advanced, becoming a Teller Supervisor and then a Branch Supervisor. As the bank went through several acquisitions, each transition brought Mary a new opportunity to learn and grow. 

She eventually became a Branch Manager, worked as a Consumer and Mortgage Lender, and earned her Series 6, 63 and 7 licenses to offer investment products. 

But as her career progressed, Mary realized she was missing something. 

“I really found I missed the community bank feeling and building relationships with the customers,” she says. 

That realization eventually led her to BNH. 

Finding the Right Fit 

In 2016, Mary joined BNH as the manager of a new banking office at Portwalk Place in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. 

What started as an opportunity to lead a new location quickly became much more. Over the years, Mary took on additional roles and became involved in committees and projects across the organization. 

Those experiences allowed her to work alongside colleagues from many different departments and gain a broader understanding of the bank. 

“These opportunities have allowed me to work with so many departments and staff, which really does make us a cohesive team at BNH,” she says. 

Today, Mary serves as Vice President – Rochester Banking Office Manager, and continues  to lead her team while contributing to the broader organization. 

A Culture That Invests in Its People 

For Mary, one of the most meaningful parts of her BNH experience has been the support she has received throughout her career. 

BNH has encouraged her to pursue professional classes and seminars while also recognizing the experience and skills she brings to the organization. 

“I have been given so many opportunities to share what I know, learn from my peers and to learn from the banking industry,” she says. 

That culture of learning has allowed Mary to continue growing while also giving her opportunities to help others grow. 

She has especially valued BNH’s support of her involvement in the communities the bank serves. 

“One area that is important to me is that of giving back,” she says. “BNH has fully supported my community service efforts and volunteering my time in the communities we serve.” 

Moments That Make a Career Meaningful 

When asked about her proudest moments at BNH, Mary finds it difficult to choose just one. 

For her, success has come in many forms — from helping a customer through a difficult time to watching an employee she has coached advance into the position they dreamed of. 

One particularly meaningful moment came when Mary was honored with the Rochester Chamber Citizen of the Year Award. 

As she looked out and saw members of BNH’s management team standing alongside her family and friends, she was reminded of just how much the organization had supported her. 

“Everyone commented on how BNH really showed up!” she recalls. 

For Mary, that moment represented more than an individual accomplishment. It reflected the relationships and community that have become such an important part of her career. 

Making a Difference 

At the heart of Mary’s approach to her work is a simple goal: making a difference. 

That might mean finding a solution for a customer or helping a fellow employee develop their skills. 

“I like to find solutions to customer issues and provide the best outcome that I can,” she says. “I also like to coach and train my teams so they can advance in their careers and grow within the company or in some cases outside of banking.” 

For Mary, leadership is not simply about managing a team. It is about helping people recognize their potential and giving them the support they need to reach it. 

One Word: Exciting 

If Mary had to describe what it is like to work at BNH in one word, she would choose “exciting.” 

“I know that is not a word most people associate with banking,” she says. 

But for Mary, no two days are exactly alike. 

She continues to learn from business partners, adapt to new technology, learn from her customers and exchange knowledge with her peers. 

“I look forward to each day and what it will bring,” she says. 

After more than 40 years in banking, that sense of curiosity and enthusiasm continues to shape her career. 

Advice for the Next Generation 

For those beginning their careers, Mary encourages them to take ownership of their professional development. 

“Learn as much as you can about the business you are choosing,” she says. 

She recommends taking advantage of classes and educational opportunities, job shadowing different departments and asking questions. She also encourages employees to find mentors and learn from people who have successfully advanced in their careers. 

And perhaps most importantly, Mary says employees should make their ambitions known. 

“Be an advocate for yourself; if you are interested in growing, make sure people know and they see you taking the extra efforts to show your value.” 

Her advice is simple: 

“Do the job you have well to get the job you want.” 

For Mary, a career that began with a desire to stop smelling like donuts has become a decades-long journey through banking, leadership, learning and community service. 

What started as an unexpected career change ultimately became a perfect fit.