James Bennett
President
Chicago Title of Nevada
Las Vegas
Years in Nevada: 41
Years with Firm: 20
Type of business: Title and Escrow Company
Biggest business challenge:
Managing the company as the real estate industry expands and contracts. There is a responsibility to all employees to do the best possible job.
What do you like best about your job?
The company management’s main responsibility is to keep the staff in a position where they can be successful in representing our name and ethical approach.
If you could start over and choose a different profession, what would it be?
My passion has always been acting. I figured out a while ago that these were not the best career choices when considering my future and my family. The title business suits me fine.
How do you spend your time when you’re not working?
My lovely wife Monica and four children have kept me focused for years. When there is a moment, you will find me playing and recording music in my studio.
Little-known fact about yourself:
I was named “actor of the year” in the RJ (2005) for my performance as Horton in Seussical.
Best Business Advice:
There is no substitute for hard work when given the opportunity. The lightning rod is timing.
How do you recruit and retain qualified employees?
We largely promote from within which creates avenues of growth for our current, loyal employees. On occasion we will focus on a geographic location, or a business type and identify a person who might be able to contribute immediately to that need.
Kathy L. Phillips
Nevada Commerce Bank
Las Vegas
Years in Nevada: Native Nevadan
Years with Firm: 7
Type of business: Commercial Banking
Biggest Business Challenge:
To avoid falling into the trap of price wars. We could easily market interest rates, deposit products, or online banking but our niche wants more than that.
What do you like best about your job?
I enjoy the ability to instill confidence in our team, and our clients.
If you could start over and choose a different profession, what would it be?
My early college years were focused on education, however, I found an interest in banking early on and knew that I could achieve many of the same rewards.
Best Business Advice:
My best business advice would be to find something that really interests you, do your best and let nobody tell you “no”. Find what sets you apart from the competition, whether it’s the product, the price or the service, and capitalize on your niche.
Little-known fact about yourself?
I am absolutely the worst golfer ever. The only thing coordinated is my outfit.
Do you offer training and schooling for your team members?
Absolutely, we take great pride in the fact that the bank offers educational opportunities and/or training to each and every employee.