In his own words: Rob Humphreys of U.S. Bank

Northern Nevada Business Weekly: Tell us a little about the northern Nevada operations of US Bank its history, its business, the size of its staff:

Rob Humphreys: US Bank came to northern Nevada by way of acquisition in 1998. We focus on middle-market commercial business, private client and retail business lines. We offer a full complement of products to meet the needs of our customers, with a focus on customer service and conservative lending. In northern Nevada we have approximately 15 traditional branches, 10 in-store locations, a private client group, mortgage group, commercial group and the support groups that complement them. We currently have approximately 160 employees.

NNBW: How is the banking industry in northern Nevada changing in the current economic climate?

Humphreys: For US Bank, not too much has changed. We have always been a conservative bank with strict underwriting and have avoided the majority of the problems many banks are currently experiencing. Our biggest focus now is to try and help our customers who are experiencing difficult times. However, it is not the bank's position to fund losses. We instead try and provide information and direction.

NNBW: How do these changes affect how you approach each work day?

Humphreys: I used to spend the majority of my day meeting with existing customers and prospects, discussing growth opportunities or local leaders in both profit and nonprofit organization trying to determine how we at US Bank could best put our dollars to work for the benefit of the community. However, I now spend the majority of my days answering questions about the economy or discussing strategies on how to help troubled companies or individuals.

NNBW: How is the work of the bank's staff changing, and how are you helping the staff make these changes?

Humphreys: We remain committed to no layoffs in northern Nevada, and while replacing personnel is slow, it is getting done. The individual business line leaders facilitate those staffing issues with the help of local Human Resources.

NNBW: How did you get into the banking business?

Hired out of college for the old First Interstate Bank training program, I thought it would be a good way to learn about starting my own business.

NNBW: What are the most important things you do as a manager?

Humphreys: Focus on keeping my staff positive and motivated and provide them with support when ever needed.

NNBW: What are your strong points as a manager?

Humphreys: I am not a micro manager, I treat people as adults, provide achievable goals, set expectations, provide support and hold them accountable for their actions and results.

NNBW: What are the most important things you've learned as a manager?

Humphreys: Be honest with people.

NNBW: What's the best part of your job? The worst?

Humphreys: Watching staff and customers succeed. Not being able to help sometimes.

NNBW: How do you spend your time away from the office? Why are these activities important to you?

Humphreys: Family, skiing, golf, travel. They help me keep perspective.

NNBW: Your proudest moments professionally? In your personal life?

Humphreys: When members of my team reach their personal goals. The caring adults my children are becoming.

NNBW: What's the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Humphreys: You work a long time. Pick a job/profession/business you enjoy regardless of money, and excel.