Interviewed by: Taylor Reynolds, Client Strategist – Senior Associate, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kameale Terry
Store Manager, Wells Fargo
Tell us a bit about yourself and the journey you took to end up as a Wells Fargo Store Manager.
My journey at Wells Fargo began about three years ago as a part time teller. I was intrigued by their coaching approach and their culture of service. As I began to get more involved in the community through Wells Fargo, I knew that this was a company that I wanted to stay with. I found a mentor and worked closely with my manager to begin my career. I was able to progress through several roles successfully, and recently, was given the opportunity to manage a branch location. I am so excited to work alongside my current team to make a difference in the community.
You’ve recently been appointed as the Wells Fargo representative for the Wharton Small Business Development Center (SBDC). What does that role entail and how did you get involved?
I currently volunteer at the Wharton SBDC, which is one of many phenomenal resources for entrepreneurs here in Philadelphia. I have the pleasure of spending one evening out of each month answering questions and offering business banking advice to future small business owners. Since I was previously a business banker, I am able to help clients navigate through business financing which can be a little daunting if it’s your first company.
You have been with Wells Fargo for a number of years; what would you attribute your years of success to?
My success can be attributed to the managers that I’ve had. I think appropriate coaching is so important when you want to be successful within a company. Both my previous manager and current manager understand my passion and always challenge me to be better. I also find that they lead by example. I know that everything that they tell me to do they would also do.
Do you have a professional mentor, and if so, how did you establish that relationship?
I always try to keep three active mentors that are within different fields. I usually identify them by their longevity within their position, how they’re viewed by their peers, and how we’re able to interact. Once I identify someone to be a mentor I talk with them about my goals and if they are willing to offer advice when needed. I currently have a peer mentor who has been in management for a number of years. We have set meetings every two weeks where I am able to recap on challenges and successes from the previous week. Since it is my first time in management, I felt it was very important to have someone who has been very successful in their role mentor me.
What interested you most in joining YPN and how long have you been a member?
I have been a member for a little over a year now. I was most interested in joining YPN because I knew it would be a great resource for me. It has been pretty awesome to mingle with folks who are outside of my industry and begin to make strong friendships.
What kinds of things do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I try to get out into nature as much as possible. I enjoy fishing, hiking, camping—basically anything that involves being out in the wilderness. It is all very relaxing and gives me a break from the city life.
YPN has a professional development bookshelf, is there a book that you are currently reading or have read in the past that you would recommend?
My all time favorite book would be The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I actually first read The Alchemist in middle school, but I’m not sure that I fully understand it at the time. I recently reread it when I first moved to Philadelphia from Los Angeles. After reading it for the second time, it has helped me to trust in myself and the journey of life.
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