Job Title: Director of Data Strategy & Analytics

Status: Exempt

Reports To: Chief Executive Officer (FSI) & President (FSBN)

Supervisory Responsibilities: N/A

Job Summary: The Director of Data Strategy & Analytics leads First State’s data strategy, ensuring integration, accuracy, and actionable use of information across systems. This role consolidates and interprets data to deliver insights, performance metrics, and forecasting support that guide executive decision-making, sales optimization, and long-term growth planning. The Director serves as the internal champion for data platforms, emerging technologies, and innovative analytics initiatives that strengthen organizational effectiveness, client relationships, and market competitiveness.

Essential Functions:

Job Specific:

• Develop and implement data strategies and reporting practices that align with organizational goals and long-term business direction.
• Consolidate data from Salesforce, Fiserv, Epic, and other platforms (e.g., accounting, marketing systems) into clear, actionable insights.
• Produce both regular and ad-hoc reports for leadership, sales, and operational teams to support performance management.
• Support annual planning and forecasting by leveraging historical data and predictive growth models.
• Identify inefficiencies, redundancies, or gaps in data processes and propose improvements to increase accuracy and efficiency.
• Define, monitor, and track executive- and board-level KPIs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategies.
• Provide recommendations to improve sales, marketing, and client retention strategies based on data analysis.

• Serve as the internal champion for Salesforce adoption, ensuring proper utilization and optimization across the agency.
• Design, maintain, and oversee dashboards, reports, and performance metrics for leadership and sales teams.
• Support ongoing Salesforce build-out and customization to meet organizational needs.
• Monitor user adoption, provide training and guidance, and ensure data quality and consistency across the platform.

• Monitor developments in cryptocurrency and digital assets, with specific attention to compliance, regulatory, and security considerations.
• Provide leadership with insights into how digital currency trends may impact community banking and client expectations.
• Research risks and opportunities tied to crypto adoption and provide recommendations tailored to organizational strategy and risk tolerance.
• Translate complex developments in crypto and related technologies into practical, clear insights for executives and staff.

• Stay current on artificial intelligence (AI) industry trends, tools, and use cases relevant to financial and insurance services.
• Research and recommend AI solutions that align with the bank’s and agency’s strategic direction.
• Lead pilot projects to evaluate AI applications, ensuring ROI, scalability, and alignment with compliance and security standards.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned to support data strategy, analytics, and organizational initiatives.

Agency Specific:

• Exhibit professionalism in appearance and attitude, maintaining confidentiality and ethical behavior at all times.
• Provide timely assistance and support to both co-workers and customers, ensuring exceptional service and accurate information.
• Demonstrate a commitment to The First State Way by upholding First State’s customer service standards in all interactions, fostering positive relationships with both external customers and internal team members.
• Adhere to regular attendance, punctuality, and break schedules.
• Take responsibility for personal actions and be accountable for performance.
• Promote and cross-sell company services while participating in training opportunities as required.
• Complete annual agency-wide training as required, ensuring all necessary knowledge and skills are up to date.
• Remain vigilant and knowledgeable about crisis procedures, including emergency protocols such as robbery.
• Comply with all company policies, procedures, and regulations, and report any concerns to Human Resources or upper-level management immediately.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and general office machinery.
• Attentive to detail with a high degree of accuracy.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently.
• Effective at interacting with customers, management, and other employees.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Excellent customer service orientation and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Flexible and able to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Well-organized with a courteous and diplomatic approach.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and strong organizational skills.
• Able to hear and communicate effectively with customers, co-workers, and external contacts.
• Proficient in reading and writing.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Data Analytics, or a related field preferred; commensurate experience in a related industry or field may be considered.
• Familiarity with Salesforce, Fiserv, and other financial or marketing platforms preferred.
• Knowledge of banking or insurance industry practices is a plus.
• Valid motor vehicle driver’s license required.

Physical Demands:

• Engage in routine physical activities such as walking, standing, sitting, stooping, bending, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to read reports and use a computer effectively.
• Lift and carry items up to 30 pounds daily, including file boxes and office supplies.

Work Environment:

• Primarily indoors in an environmentally controlled setting.
• Occasional travel by car to visit other company locations may be required.
• Flexibility for occasional evening and weekend work to achieve established goals.

Note: The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the employee assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the employee.