Why I Chose FBN^®: Carla Lappe, Loan Advisor Manager

Our ‘Why I Chose FBN’ series features stories from employees across different roles, teams, and geographies on how they got to FBN, what it’s like to work here, and how their teams help fulfill our mission of putting Farmers First®.

When did you join FBN, what is your current role, where are you based and what are your responsibilities?  

I joined FBN in September of 2020 as a Loan Advisor and transitioned to the Loan Advisor Manager role in October 2021. I work remotely from the Nashville, Illinois area which is 60 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri. Current responsibilities involve assisting my direct team and any other team needs. Every day is a little different.

What was your previous work experience before joining FBN? 

My parents were in the petroleum business, delivering fuel to farmers, so I have been around Ag my whole life. However, my Ag career did not begin until February 2001 when I joined the Farm Credit system. I was with Farm Credit for over 16 years and then with Ag Resource Management (ARM) for almost three years before joining FBN.

What did you first find compelling about FBN that led you to want to learn more? 

​​FBN started showing up on my social media, so I followed them to learn more. I was intrigued by the Farmers First® approach. The more I learned about FBN, the more excited I became about wanting to be a part of FBN.

Why did you ultimately decide to join FBN? What did this thought process look like for you? 

The interview process was extensive, which allowed me the opportunity to ask questions and meet potential colleagues. One thing was very clear with everyone I met, they were passionate about FBN and they were focused on putting Farmers First. The more I learned of FBN’s vision, the more I wanted to be a part of FBN.

What kind of impact are you and your team having on the company’s future?

Although the Finance team is one of the newer business units within FBN, our team has a lot of Ag lending and underwriting experience. Our team wants to help farmers succeed in growing their farming operations. We are here to assist in providing financial solutions to their operations and to provide the best possible financing for their operation in regards to operating, real estate and equipment loans.

How does FBN’s mission come to life in your day-to-day work? How does your work positively impact famers?  

FBN's mission is to help farmers succeed.  Every farm operation is different and getting to know a farm operation to provide the best financial solutions for their operation is important.

Now that you’ve joined, how would you describe FBN’s culture and what it’s like to work here? 

How would I describe FBN...WOW!  The Ag experience within the Finance team is incredible and the collaboration between teams is also incredible in working to put Farmers First.

We know you have a life outside of work - what kinds of things do you do for fun? 

I enjoy being with family and friends. I also live close to St. Louis so I enjoy attending Cardinal baseball and Blues hockey games.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone considering FBN?

Call FBN, let's talk. Give us the opportunity to answer your questions to better understand why you should choose FBN® Finance.

Want to Work for FBN?

Outstanding companies are built by outstanding people. The FBN team goes to work everyday to ensure American farmers stay profitable while they feed the world.

Learn more about the open roles available at FBN.

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