Jacob Slaton

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Mickey Belle Shields-Manley
Assistant Vice President and Director of Marketing, CS Bank
Age: 26 | Hometown: Russellville | Alma Mater: Arkansas Tech University

Mickey Belle Shields-Manley's early ambition was a steady job in sports marketing, so a career in banking wasn't what she expected. In fact, when her high school math teacher predicted she’d make a great banker, Mickey's response was, “That would be so boring!” Unbeknownst to her, a career in banking was already choosing her. 

The teacher's encouragement was a significant influence that shaped her college decisions. The summer following her freshman year at Arkansas Tech University, she successfully applied for a teller position at a local bank. She has remained at the bank ever since, steadily advancing her career to reach the highest corporate levels.

“I quickly realized banking isn't about numbers. It's about people, growth, and helping communities thrive,” Mickey said.

Mickey credits the banking industry with helping her develop strong critical thinking and communication skills, as well as a strategic, big-picture perspective. Above all, she found the process of "learning to learn" to be the most enjoyable aspect of the job.

“In banking, things change constantly: regulations, technology and customer behavior,” Mickey said. “The ability to adapt and keep growing is a major, if not the largest advantage and that's something no amount of money can buy, just the work put in.”

Mickey's father has always been her greatest role model and mentor. He instilled in her a strong work ethic from a young age, demonstrating that true success is built upon consistency, integrity, and the commitment to persevere, even when faced with difficulties.

“From a very young age, he instilled the belief in me that as long as I worked hard, I could do and achieve whatever I wanted in life,” Mickey said. “His belief in me is what has made me believe in myself!”

Mickey's banking career, from teller to her current role as director of marketing at CS Bank, was shaped by a consistent line of influential mentors: Donna Parton, Charlie Cross, Jason Tennant, Joe McClung, Karen Partee, Shelley Regin, Lorrie Trodgen, Kristen Sutton and Natalie Bartholomew. Their collective guidance was instrumental in her growth to a senior-level position, consistently challenging her to think bigger, lead stronger, never settle and always stand tall.

“[Success is] less about natural talent and more about mindset. If you're coachable, willing to learn, driven and have a positive attitude, you can succeed. The truth of the matter is this: you can learn almost anything. But you cannot fake discipline.”

Let's Talk Banking

Who is your go-to financial social media influencer? 

“Allison Talks Money is a great resource on TikTok!”

When did you open your first bank account? 

“My parents took me to open my first account when I was 14 years old.”

What was your first ever job? 

“My first job was at Walmart. I learned early on that effort matters. If you are willing to work hard and go the distance, it rarely goes unnoticed. Work ethic compounds over time, just like money does.”

Go-to advice?

“Build a relationship with your bank early. Ask questions. Understand your account. Learn how credit works. The more informed you are, the more confident you are. Confidence doesn't happen overnight, it's built through small, consistent steps.”