Johnny Gonzalez โ Branch Business Manager
ย By day, Johnny Gonzalez is the manager of Penn Community Bankโs Lower Makefield Branch, but outside the office heโs an internationally-known singer-songwriter.
ย What began as a passion for music cultivated in his church has turned into Spanish-language recording career serves as a connection to his Latino roots.
โMusic is a way to unite people. Itโs an outlet for all,โ said Gonzalez, who is getting ready to record a full studio album following a string of successful singles and EPs. โMy music is about being uplifting, giving a sense of hope, and having fun.โ
ย As the country marks Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 –ย October 15), Gonzalez says itโs important to remember the role Latinos played in American history.
โHispanic Heritage Month is definitely about embracing and celebrating the Latino culture, but itโs just as important to celebrate the impact of the community and the leadership of Latinos in every industry and facet of life.โ
But being involved with the Latino community isnโt just for one month a year, said Gonzalez. He recently join The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce as an ambassador working to connect Latino businesses and local communities together.
โThereโs more work to be done for banks to integrate themselves into diverse communities. Reaching out to those of different backgrounds and cultures to spread the importance of banking and financial literacy. The great thing is I can be an authentic resource to the Latino community.โ
ย Q&A with Johnnyย ย ย
ย What attracted you to a career in banking?
When I was in school, my focus was always on music, but I remember I always felt connected to the idea of business. The idea of making connections, advancing a product or idea. When I joined Penn Community Bank about 11 years ago I started as a teller. As Iโve moved through new roles and opportunities, banking has given me an education in business. Whether itโs connecting people with the right product or talking to business owners about what they do and how they can thrive, Iโm passionate about the business or financial services.
ย Have you had any mentors during your career?
Iโm always grateful to (Bristol Branch Manager) Patty Samuels for bringing me into the organization even without any experience or background in banking. From there, so many people have helped me grow, but one that stands out is (Director of Retail Banking) Jake Iampietro. From the start, Jake has really developed me and helped me better understand the organization and the industry.
What makes Penn Community Bank special?
Penn Community Bankโs culture is really like a small business. Weโre helping people, deepening relationships with customers, and making a real impact. Even though weโre a big organization, it never feels like youโre just a number at a bigย corporation โ we know everyone and departments and financial centers are always helping one another.
Are you active in any local organizations?
Iโm really involved with my church, TIR Church, in Levittown. Iโm part of our youth work and help with community outreach to the underserved.
Is there a book that has had an impact on your career?
Iโd say Mark Cubanโs book How to Win at the Sport of Business. It was interesting to learn about him and how he climbed the ladder to become who he is today. The book really shows the connection between effort and outcome, andย highlights being the best you can be at where you are โ even if itโs not where you want to be forever.
