American Banker named Centier Bank the Best Bank to Work For in Indiana and the 10th best in the United States.
American Banker named 90 banks in the nation on their 2023 list. Centier has made the list for the past 11 years. It is one of the largest banks ranked. Muncie-based First Merchants Bank also made the list at No. 60.
The magazine bases their rankings on employee surveys and reviews of employer benefits. They also evaluate traits such as workplace culture, trust and communication. The program is done in partnership with the Best Companies Group.
“Centier Bank maintains its culture by hiring those with a servant heart, which is the desire to help and serve others,” said Michael Schrage, CEO and bank chairman, in a press release. “The bank also promotes its corporate values of caring, loyalty, integrity, friendship and fun.”
Centier also was on Forbes’ Best-in-State-Banks list from 2018 to 2023. The bank has appeared on the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s list of Best Places to Work in Indiana.
“Our goal is to foster a workplace where excellence thrives,” said Chrisanne Christ, senior partner in human resource development at Centier. “Attracting top talent and expanding bank leadership has been inspiring as we look toward a successful future.”
Centier is Indiana’s largest private, family-owned bank. The bank has more than $7.5 million in assets. Founded in 1995, Centier has headquarters in Merrillville. The bank has 60 offices in 11 counties, and employs 1,00 people.
Muncie-based First Merchants Bank has locations in Northwest Indiana and employs 2,182 people. Mark Hardwick took over as CEO two years ago. He has been with the company for 26 years.
“Our brand is about being more attentive to our employees, customers and community than any other bank,” Hardwick said. “Leading a brand-focused culture became our No. 1 strategic priority, concentrating on attentiveness, inclusivity, teamwork, performance management, career development, rewards and work-life balance. We've deliberately strengthened our brand, engaged our teams and improved our culture positioning First Merchants as the best place to work.”
The No. 1 bank on the list was Oakworth Capital Bank in Birmingham Alabama, which employs 143 people. Northbrook-based First Bank Chicago landed the second spot with 146 employees.
