With a decade of experience at Police Credit Union, Sarah recently swapped the city lights of Adelaide for a tree change to lead our Mount Gambier team as Branch Manager.
Having previously lived in Mount Gambier, Sarah temporarily lent a hand to the branch and rediscovered her love of the town. It was this and the welcoming team that inspired her to apply for the role and return to the Limestone Coast permanently.
Sarah brings with her extensive experience across a variety of roles with Police Credit Union including Member service, lending, insurance, Assistant Branch Manager, training and now Branch Manager. Combined with her friendly and supportive attitude and passion for leading a high performing team, she’s the perfect fit for the job.
Find out what inspired Sarah to make the move from Adelaide back to Mount Gambier, and what hopes she has for the branch and team.
Can you share a little about your career path and what led you to Police Credit Union?
Before starting at Police Credit Union, I was working part-time in insurance. When my son turned five and started school, I felt it was the right time to begin looking for full-time work and start building a long-term career. I came across the ad for Police Credit Union and, after doing some research, I was really impressed with the organisation and its values. It felt like the kind of organisation I would genuinely enjoy working for and growing with.
What inspired you to apply for the Branch Manager role in Mt Gambier?
I lived in Mount Gambier for a few years as a teenager and, at the time, I thought I preferred Adelaide and couldn’t wait to move back there. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to really appreciate how beautiful and relaxed Mount Gambier is—and I’ve realised how much I enjoy that lifestyle. I’ve also done a few short stints at the Mount Gambier branch to help and during that time I got to know the team. I really enjoyed working with the staff and have a lot of respect for them. I decided I would love to manage and work alongside this team of people.
What excites you most about your role and being part of the Police Credit Union Mt Gambier team?
It’s a new challenge for me and the team which is exciting. I’m excited about making changes for the better and supporting the team so they feel like they can do their jobs to the best of their ability.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time with Police Credit Union so far?
Recently a staff member’s husband came across an orphaned lamb. I put my hand up to look after the lamb until we could find her a good home. She came to work with me daily and brought many smiles and laughs to the team and Members. We named her Sage and she is now thriving at Orphan Lamb Farm.
What are you hoping to achieve in this role?
I’m hoping to build a great team bond, make sure we bring fun to our days and see the team and individual staff thrive. I am really keen to make connections with our existing Members and invite new Members to start their life journeys – whether it be the exciting new purchase of a dream car or that first property or to even save some money with a refinance.
What is your hidden talent/superpower?
I gave it away in a question above, but I am a sucker for animals! I have 3 dogs, 2 cats and 2 frogs who all get treated like royalty!
What is your most memorable customer experience at Police Credit Union and why?
One of our regular members at the TTP branch became very unwell. We wanted to show our concern and support so we made a care package with yummy fruits and vegetables, a heat bag and some other care products. I personally delivered the hamper and the member was overwhelmed with our gesture. Once the member was better, he and his partner decided to get married after such a big health scare, they invited the TTP branch to the wedding and would not take no for answer!! It was a beautiful day and night to remember.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Protect your peace without hardening your heart.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time or on weekends?
I love spending time with my family, live music, having a drink and a laugh.
Can you share a funny memory from your time at Police Credit Union?
My co-workers find it fun to scare me. Whether they’re waiting behind a door or hiding under my desk, they always get me — and my reactions make their day!
What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to develop a career in banking?
If you are in the right environment, you will love it. I enjoy what I do because we are so Member focussed, and we pride ourselves on providing service that is second to none.
If you’re a Mount Gambier Member, Sarah would love to meet you! You never know, there may be an animal in branch waiting to meet you too.
If you’re interested in a career in banking with Police Credit Union, an award-winning credit union, visit our careers page.