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. Michaela O’Leary has been with Banterra for more than eight years and currently serves as our Virtual Banking Coordinator. Starting her career as a teller, Michaela went on to help launch Banterra’s Virtual Banking department in 2019. Michaela’s dedication to learning and adapting has made her a valued part of the Banterra family.
Tell Us About Yourself
I grew up in Carterville, Illinois and graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 2017 with a degree in History. I am a fourth generation Saluki (Go Dawgs!) and graduated two days before my first day at Banterra. I live in Murphysboro with my husband, Ryan. My hobbies include reading, making sourdough bread, taking care of my extensive plant collection, and all things Taylor Swift!
What Is Something About Yourself That Would Surprise Us?
I have FBI like investigation skills. I can find pretty much anything online with minimal starting information.
What Did You Want To Be When Growing Up?
I’ve always had a love of history, hence the degree. Growing up, I wanted to become a museum curator. I even interned at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum in Springfield, Illinois during college and loved every minute of it.
What Is The First Concert You Attended?
My first concert was to see Jonas Brothers. Ironically, they are also the latest concert I attended.
What Is Your Favorite Family Tradition That You Still Do Today?
Every Christmas, my family hosts a Christmas Movie Marathon. It's an all-day event with our favorite Christmas movies. The old cartoon Grinch, Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and The Santa Clause 1 & 2.
How Have You Grown Personally Or Professionally While Working At Banterra?
I had no prior banking experience before starting at Banterra, so I've learned a lot about this industry. I started as a teller at the Kroger branch and worked my way up. I was part of the initial group who started the Virtual Banking department in 2019 and helped to grow Online Account Opening. The challenge of starting a new department has been very rewarding and helped to improve my professional skills. Each day there is a new challenge to overcome, and no two days are the same. As my high school calculus teacher used to say, "It's not about knowing what to do, but how to figure out what to do."
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.
December 18, 2025 by Banterra Bank
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