Jill Castilla, President and CEO, Citizens Bank of Edmond
Jill Castilla spends at least two hours each week surrounded by entrepreneurs and startups.
Late last year, the president and CEO of Citizens Bank of Edmond transformed 15,000 square feet of unused office space into an entrepreneurial center with co-working options and programming for small businesses. Today Vault 405 has about 50 people using the space, with Castilla in the center every week for various meetings.
Vault 405 has attracted new business to Citizens, Castilla said. It has also positioned the bank as a supporter and friend to the founders of early-stage companies.
"Whenever you walk into the space, to see the dozens of diverse businesses that are represented — I know each of their stories and I know that we are helping them become a better company by the resources we provide," Castilla said. "I feel a great sense of pride that I get to be a part of those stories."
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The past year was one of innovation for the $262 million-asset Citizens. In addition to Vault 405, Castilla opened an unstaffed banking office that booked $15 million in loans within its first three months.
Outside of her own bank, Castilla remains a well-known speaker and influencer in the community banking sector. She is active on social media and often hosts bankers from around the country who want to learn more about Citizens. She has been featured on over 20 podcasts about innovation and is a regular television and radio guest.
Citizens has also branched out, expanding beyond its home in Edmond, a suburb of Oklahoma City, this year. The new unmanned branch in Oklahoma City serves an area with high cash needs.
The bank partnered with a local coffee shop to develop the space, which includes a rolled-coins dispensary and lets customers make large cash deposits and withdrawals. The tech-savvy facility is adding new customers each week.
"It's something we hope to replicate in the future," Castilla said
