Meet Craig Poms, Commercial Banker
Q: What exactly is commercial banking?
A: Commercial banking is business oriented. We work with companies across all industries, as well as real estate investors, on loans that have a business purpose.
Q: How does commercial banking help our members?
Our members benefit from working with a bank that understands business and the real estate investing landscape. In addition, because we work across a wide variety of industries, we bring a wide range of experiences and can also facilitate helpful connections.
Q: What differentiates TowneBank from other banks?
The level of service we provide is unmatched. Business owners have many needs that don’t fit into a box. We listen closely to what our members are trying to accomplish and craft solutions that meet their specific needs.
Q: If someone were debating between banking at TowneBank and another bank, why should they choose TowneBank?
We have a team approach at TowneBank that allows for a level of consistency with our members. We know our members well and can tailor services and products that best meet their needs. For our business-oriented members, this level of familiarity is particularly important and is harder and harder to find.
Q: Describe a time when you helped a member out of a difficult situation or helped to solve a problem for them.
We worked with a member who was trying to purchase a building. They encountered issues related to the loan structure that was affecting the ability to close. Our team worked together to understand those concerns and was able to re-craft the loan so that it worked for the member and the bank, allowing them to close on the purchase.
Q: What is your favorite thing about what you do?
I love understanding each business owner and what they are trying to accomplish. It’s fulfilling to help put together a plan that helps them on their path to success. It is even better when you see them succeed, whether that’s a new location or even selling their business for a great return.
Q: What are three traits that define TowneBank?
Strength. Flexibility. Caring.
Q: Name something you’ve learned from one of your members.
I’ve seen traits that really good entrepreneurs have, like the ability to focus and stick with something through challenges. They also teach me about different industries that I may not otherwise know.
Q: Where do you see changes coming in commercial banking in the next 2-3 years?
We may see a shift in economic conditions that could change what a business owner needs, and sometimes, what banks can provide.
