River City Six – Brandi Ballan
Meet Brandi Ballan, business banking solutions officer at West Gate Bank®.
Tell us a little about your business.
West Gate Bank is a family-owned community bank, founded in 1968 in Lincoln. Community banking has been our focus for over 50 years. We have seven locations in Lincoln and three locations in the Omaha Metro. West Gate Bank is a full-service bank, so whether you need a checking/savings account, commercial loan, mortgage loan or anything in between, we are here for you!
How did you get started in the business?
I started my career in the title business and quickly figured out that it wasn’t for me, so I moved into banking. I started my banking career almost 15 years ago. I’ve done a variety of things during that time, including loan assistant, business banking, private banking, and cash management.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
I’ve been through two bank sales. It’s never easy dealing with a change in ownership and all of the uncertainty that comes with it. I’m glad I stayed through the change-over because I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t.
Tell us a little about your family.
I’ve been married to my husband Scot for 13 years. We have two amazing kids, Brooklyn (11) and Brogan (7). We live in Elkhorn. The kids keep us busy with all of their sports and activities!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Meeting my husband. My life was headed in a different direction before I met him. I know he was put in my life for a reason and am thankful for him everyday!
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I love to go shopping with my daughter, play golf if the weather is nice, and spend time with my family.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I was the drum major for my high school marching band.
Who inspires you?
My parents have always been my inspiration. They taught me what hard work and dedication will get you from a young age. My kids also inspire me daily. I want to instill those same values and work ethic in them as they grow up.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
Teleportation! I love to travel, so it would be amazing if I could snap my fingers and be where ever I wanted to go.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
I’ve always been a sports nut. I would love to have Erin Andrews’ job.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I’ve been involved with Completely Kids for the last five years. They serve the families in the lowest income part of Omaha. They provide after school programs and family services at 14 locations. Completely Kids was the first nonprofit to offer a weekend food program. Being able to make a difference in these kids lives has been life changing for me.
What is your favorite TV show?
Million Dollar Listing or Dancing with the Stars.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Rachel Hollis, the author of my favorite book, Girl Stop Apologizing.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 758-8717; Email: bballan@westgate.bank; Website: westgate.bank.