At Banterra, we value our team members’ hard work and passion for serving our customers. Through our teams’ commitment, we hope it reflects the type of service and culture that you can experience with Banterra.

To allow you the opportunity to get to know our team, while also thanking these individuals for their dedication, we spotlight those who have shown exceptional service and value in their role at Banterra. Next to be featured is Ben Craft, Commercial Officer in the Southern Illinois region, who is also one of the co-hosts of the bank’s new podcast, Helping You Thrive with Banterra Bank. Continue reading to learn more about Ben’s career growth, passions, and more.   

Tell Us About Yourself

I was born and raised in Carterville, Illinois and graduated from Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale after spending my freshman year at Ole Miss. I currently live in Carterville with my wife, Sarah, and kids, Kylee (11), Natalie (8), and Ryan (3). Outside of my professional life, I like watching sports, playing golf, reading (usually historical non-fiction) and chauffeuring my kids around to whatever they have going on.

What Is Something About Yourself That Would Surprise Us?

I am technically an only child, but I have nine siblings. Try to figure that one out.

What Is Your Favorite Travel Spot?

I was lucky enough to attend a practice round of The Masters at Augusta National Golf Club in 2024. It was truly a bucket list experience, and I hope to go back again one day.

Do You Have A Favorite Inspirational Or Movie Quote?

“It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard is what makes it great.”  - Tom Hanks as Jimmy Dugan, A League of Their Own

What Is Your Favorite Sport?

My favorite sport to watch is college football, followed closely by golf.

How Have You Grown Personally Or Professionally While Working At Banterra?

Banterra has provided me with the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally over the past nine years. I came to the bank as a Banking Center Manager and moved to a lending role a few years later. I have had the opportunity to see things from both the retail and loan perspectives. Plus, I have been given the chance to learn what I like to do and now find myself doing something that is fulfilling. I truly enjoy building relationships with people in the bank and in the community and feel very blessed to be where I am today.

Join Banterra’s Team

Banterra is proud to have a growing and dedicated team of professionals reaching milestones and serving our customers well. Across our six-state footprint, we are always looking to add qualified and talented individuals to support Banterra’s growth and initiatives. From entry-level positions to leadership roles, there is a wide range of opportunities that meet various skill sets. Are you looking to join a company focused on career growth with a variety of benefits? Visit our website to learn more about our career opportunities and how to apply.  

Banterra Bank is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.