How Ben Skilling creates a team atmosphere

We recently sat down with Ben Skilling, senior vice president, director of private wealth management sales and delivery, to hear how a dream to be on an NBA team helped fuel his career in wealth management.

Tell me about your career trajectory. How did you end up at UMB?

It sounds crazy, but I knew at a very early age that I wanted a career in finance. Of course, like most grade schoolers, that was only after the realization that the NBA was probably out of the question. Early in my childhood, I was introduced to the concept of interest and the importance of making your money work for you as quick as you can. That fascination propelled my education in finance and what is now a 20-year career in wealth management. UMB was the perfect next step for me because the company and I share a passion for helping people grow and preserve their money.

What have you found most rewarding about the banking industry?

I find it most rewarding to help our clients solve complex financial needs and watch clients truly maximize their balance sheets. It is very fun to see clients, especially in retirement, enjoy the money they’ve worked so hard to earn. We have the privilege of helping our clients achieve their goals all while positioning a hard-working team behind them who anticipates any curveballs that might come up.

What is one lesson you’ve learned from managing people?

Transparency is key. UMB embraces change and evolution, so it is important that we are transparent with our associates and make sure everyone understands our overall goals. Growth comes with opportunities and it’s important to have open and honest discussions with everyone. We need all associates to fully understand our mission and goals and transparency is one of the fastest ways to ensure we are aiming for the same basketball hoop.

How have you tackled challenges in your career?

Challenges and change are going to come up no matter what in a career. For me, the best way to conquer a challenge or a big change is by leaning on a strong network of colleagues and mentors. It also helps to have clear communication and a growth mindset when presented for a tough situation. Ultimately, we want UMB to grow and remembering that goal can help you get through any challenge or change. No one person can do it all on their own, but as a team, we can accomplish any challenge or change together.

What do you think is the biggest strength of our company right now?

The biggest asset at UMB is our people. We have wonderful people working to bring the unparalleled customer experience to life. UMB associates are passionate about their work and the communities they serve. We all operate under the same mission, which makes coming to work very fun. UMB is a company centered around people. You can see it in how we treat our associates and customers. It’s definitely a strength for the company and something I look forward to seeing expand as we grow in new markets and meet many new associates and customers.

Interested in learning more about our Private Wealth Management division? With UMB, you have a guiding partner from financial advising and wealth building strategies, to retirement and legacy preservation plans.