“Interior Savings is focused on its members and the community. The end goal is not sales, but rather ensuring our members feel educated and secure in their financial journey” – Whitney Speirs.
And, yes that is her real name. Another thing Whitney has in common with a certain celebrity pop icon along with an uncannily similar name? A love of dance. Outside of her job as the Supervisor of Member Services at our West Kelowna Branch, Whitney teaches jazz and hip hop 5 times a week at a local studio. It’s truly a passion of hers that many of our employees got to witness firsthand at our annual gala this year where she was in charge of choreographing a show-stopping routine for our Executive Team!
Described as the ‘energizer bunny’ by her team members, this cat-loving go-getter has been spreading joy with her infectious laugh at Interior Savings for the last 5 years.
We asked Whitney a few questions about her work at Interior Savings. Here’s what she had to say.
What do you like about working at Interior Savings?
Interior Savings is focused solely on its members and the community. Sales are not the end goal as it can be with the big banks, rather it’s ensuring our members feel educated and secure in their financial journey. Being locally managed and operated means we know firsthand what is affecting our members lives and how best to react and be proactive.
We are a high functioning team, and in collaboration with our various partners we’re able to offer everything from wealth management to insurance services and provide a personalized and comprehensive financial support system to our members.
What causes/organizations are you passionate about?
I am a huge advocate for the SPCA. I volunteer regularly at the Kelowna Shelter and I am surprised I have not yet turned into the crazy cat lady I am destined to become. I love the fact that Interior Savings supports its employees in their volunteer efforts through the Employee Volunteer Program and encourages us to make a positive difference in our communities.
Why is supporting local so important?
Supporting local ensures that important decisions are made right here in the Okanagan by people who live in this community and who will feel the impact of those decisions. It also creates diversity and one of a kind businesses that give us an economic advantage.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Ultimately, leadership is not about glorious crowning acts. It’s about keeping your team focused on a goal and motivated to do their best to achieve it, especially when the stakes are high and the consequences really matter. It is about laying the groundwork for others’ success, and then standing back and letting them shine.”
-Chris Hadfield
Are you a spender or a saver?
I am a big saver! My husband would even use the word cheap….unless it’s on wine. This is yet another way I support local businesses in the Okanagan! #okanaganwine
What’s your biggest impulse buy or something you buy daily or weekly that is an indulgence?
I have a small obsession with energy drinks. I like to be efficient and I give 100% in everything I do. Sometimes I need a little extra caffeine boost to keep running at full capacity!
Who would you nominate for the next feature and why?
I would nominate Ed Smysnuik, our AVP of Retail Operations. He’s an extremely hard-worker, driven, and always supportive of his staff. He is fearless in his approach to success and has been an amazing role model.
Thank you for all you do Whitney. Your ‘can-do’ attitude makes you a true champion of the organization and we appreciate all that you do!