Celebrating ESL Employees During Black History Month: George Amoh

February 2022

In honor of Black History Month, we’d like to introduce you to a few ESL employees who have built unique careers for themselves in and outside of ESL. Then learn more about our commitment to becoming a diverse, inclusive workplace that provides equitable growth opportunities for all employees.

Why do you think it’s important for companies and their employees to recognize and celebrate Black History Month?

It is important to recognize Black History month as an Organization. Black History Month gives us the opportunity to go beyond the discussion of race and slavery, and to highlight some of the great accomplishments of Black leaders and activists within the community. It also provides an opportunity for organizations to take a step back, and to see if they are representing the community they serve.

Tell us about your current role and any other positions you’ve had at ESL.

My current position is the Business Banking Relationship Manager Associate. I am part of the new Business Banking cohort program to develop and train Relationship Managers from within ESL. Prior to my current position, I worked as a Teller, Relationship Banker, and Lead Relationship Banker at the Chili branch and also as a Teller II at the Long Pond branch.

Share something unique about your own career experiences.

Before working at ESL I worked in customer service, but a career in banking was not on my radar at the time. A friend encouraged me to apply to a job at ESL, and then I started looking into the company more. The whole idea of a banking career became very real to me. I look forward to growing my career in banking now.

What are some lessons you’ve learned about managing your career growth; was your career path exactly how you envisioned it would be or have there been surprises?

The first lesson I learned about managing my career is: don’t work only for money. Money is essential (don’t get me wrong), but it cannot be the sole reason to remain in a role. For me, it is important to know I am making a positive impact on my customers/members, and also to know I belong to something bigger like ESL “Helping our community thrive and prosper.” That gives me the motivation to come to work every day.

The second lesson is: never stop learning. There are always people with more experience who are willing to help you grow personally and professionally. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Adopting a learning attitude helps with becoming a more rounded, educated, and fulfilled individual.

What has provided the best opportunities for career growth?

I think ESL does a great job with providing opportunities to help employees grow. I have also been fortunate to work with great managers who have been instrumental in my career growth and personal development.

What career advice would you offer to those starting out?

The best career advice I can offer anybody is: never stop learning and ask questions. Understand that you don’t know it all, and there are people with more experience willing to help you out.

Has ESL provided support to help you manage your career?

Yes. ESL has a great support system when it comes to managing and developing your career. The tuition aid program and the personal development programs are all very helpful.

What is your favorite part of working at ESL?

I will go with the end of year celebration dinner. You get the opportunity to meet many different colleagues, see people you haven’t seen in a while, decompress, have fun, and celebrate success as a company together.