A Licking native, Jason Stone is no stranger to the Ozarks, banking or lending so taking the reins from a seasoned loan officer at Houston’s locally owned community bank was a career move that just made sense.
“I was eager for expanded opportunities in lending and when the position with Progressive Ozark Bank came available, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue,” said Stone.
With over 14 years of experience as a loan officer at Town & Country Bank in Licking and a strong personal following, he is well qualified for the task of supporting Senior Loan Officer Sandy Howard’s well-established customer base, the bank said in announcing the hire.Â
“My specialty is agriculture,” Jason said, “I really like helping farming families and small businesses.”
That should come as no surprise, since he was raised on a farm. After graduating from the University of Missouri in 2001, Stone quickly began to pursue a career in banking. He and his wife, Amber, enjoy family time with his two daughters most. You may find them kayaking on the river or busy with events at Rock Springs Baptist Church. As for personal hobbies, Jason mostly enjoys hunting and cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals.
But most of Jason’s time lately has been spent getting to know the staff and customers at his new home bank. As you’d expect, a 28-year career at a locally owned organization turns many customers into dear friends, and that has been true for Sandy Howard.
“What I’ll miss most are the people,” Sandy said of her pending retirement, “but I know Jason will do a great job for them and for the bank.”
Progressive Ozark Bank will host a welcome reception for Stone on Nov. 15 at the Houston branch, with further details to come.
There’s still plenty of time for customers to visit with Sandy also, as her retirement date is set for late February 2020 when a reception will be held in her honor.