Kelley Laird
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT POSITION? PLEASE INCLUDE HOW LONG YOU'VE BEEN IN THE POSITION AND AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT DO.
I am currently an AVP, Branch Business Lending Advisor at Fidelity Bank with 6 months within the role and 4.5 years total the company. I was previously an AVP, Retail Branch Manager II of the Scranton Financial Center Branch. I’m responsible for supporting Branch Managers in managing complex business loan transactions, enhancing client relationships, and driving growth in business banking. This role combines leadership, coaching, and technical expertise in loan structuring, credit analysis, and business development. The advisor ensures compliance with regulatory standards, participates in sales and service efforts, and helps maintain high client service standards, contributing to overall branch performance and success.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY MOST MOTIVATES YOU TO DO THE WORK YOU DO? WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?
What motivates me most in my role is being able to make a tangible impact on our local businesses and the people behind them. I’m passionate about helping entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality and watching those businesses strengthen our communities. Knowing that I play a part in supporting local growth and helping clients reach their financial goals is what truly drives me every day.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND—WHERE YOU GREW UP, YOUR PATH AFTER HIGH SCHOOL (COLLEGE, TRADE SCHOOL, OR MILITARY), AND WHAT LED YOU TO PURSUE YOUR CAREER IN NEPA.
I was born and raised in Dunmore, and I’ve always had a strong appreciation for the sense of community here. After high school, I attended college at Temple University and began my career in the hospitality and events industry, working my way up from a coordinator to an area director. During that time, I discovered how much I enjoyed building relationships, problem-solving, and helping others reach their goals — which naturally led me to transition into banking.
Today, as a Branch Business Lending Advisor with Fidelity Bank, I get to combine that same passion for people with the opportunity to support local businesses and help our communities grow. Staying in NEPA was an easy decision — it’s where my roots are, and it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to the success of local entrepreneurs and organizations that make this region thrive.
WERE THERE ANY MENTORS OR INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE WHO SHAPED WHO YOU ARE TODAY? IF SO, HOW DID THEY IMPACT YOU?
The most influential person in my life is my mother, Diane. She is strong, caring, and kind, and she has molded me into the woman I am today. She’s my greatest role model and my best friend, and I’m forever grateful for all she has done for me and all she continues to do. Her strength and compassion inspire me daily to lead with empathy, work hard, and stay grounded in what truly matters.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH LEADERSHIP LACKAWANNA, WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE, AND HOW HAVE YOU STAYED CONNECTED SINCE GRADUATION?
My experience with Leadership Lackawanna was with the Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) program. This I first got involved with Leadership Lackawanna because I wanted to deepen my connection to the community and continue growing both personally and professionally. As someone who works closely with local businesses through my role at Fidelity Bank, I saw it as a great opportunity to learn more about the region, its leaders, and the many ways we can all contribute to its growth.
My experience was incredibly rewarding — it pushed me outside of my comfort zone, helped me develop stronger leadership and communication skills, and introduced me to an amazing network of passionate, community-minded individuals. It gave me a broader perspective on the impact collaboration can have in NEPA. Since graduating, I’ve stayed connected by supporting local Leadership Lackawanna events, cheering on new class members, and continuing to stay involved in community organizations that align with the program’s mission of service and leadership development. In addition, I have been a class advisor for the Core Program for the past 3 years.
LET’S GET PERSONAL:
Hobby(ies): Outside of work, I enjoys teaching dance at Ballet Theatre of Scranton, volunteering with community organizations, attending local events, and spending time with my family and dogs.
TV Show(s): Some of my favorite TV shows are Grey's Anatomy, Schitt's Creek, and Emily in Paris.
Musician(s)/Band(s): Some of my favorite artists are Teddy Swims, Tyler Childers, The Lumineers.
NEPA Landmark(s): My favorite NEPA landmark is Downtown Scranton — especially because it represents the heart of our community.
Restaurant(s): Some of my favorite restaurants are Ragnacci's, Backyard Ale House, and Bar Pazzo.
Quote/Motto:“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” – Mother Teresa