Featuring Nicole Jacobson, AVP of Ag/Commercial Lending
At Peoples Bank, every lender has a story, but some journeys truly reflect what community banking is all about. For Nicole Jacobson, AVP of Ag and Commercial Lending, that journey started at the ground level and grew into a career rooted in passion, relationships, and helping others succeed.
A Career Built Step by Step
Nicole has worked her way through banking from entry-level positions to where she is today. Along the way, Peoples Bank gave her the opportunity to focus on what she loves most, ag and commercial lending.
Helping customers open their own business or purchase their first farm is something Nicole is deeply passionate about and that passion continues to drive her every day.
No Two Days the Same
There’s no “typical” day for Nicole, and that’s exactly what makes her role so rewarding. She splits her time between the office and out in the field, visiting business owners and checking in on farming operations.
Whether she’s talking cattle with a customer or jumping into a combine during harvest, Nicole values the opportunity to connect with her customers in a hands-on, meaningful way.
Building Trust First
For Nicole, the most important thing every customer should feel is comfortable.
Money is one of the most important aspects of people’s lives, and trust is essential. Nicole strives to create an environment where customers feel confident in their decisions and the relationship they’ve built with her.
Redefining Success
While lending is at the core of her role, Nicole finds the greatest reward in something deeper, watching her customers grow and eventually become debt-free.
That long-term vision has become a personal goal for her: not just helping customers get started, but supporting them through every stage of their financial journey.
Life Beyond the Office
Balancing work, family, and farm life takes organization and teamwork. Nicole describes herself as a checklist and itinerary type of person, which helps keep everything on track.
With her kids now older, evenings on the farm have become a well-coordinated effort, where everyone knows their responsibilities and works together to get things done.
Giving Back to the Community
Nicole believes that community is at the root of small towns—it helps both individuals and businesses grow.
She has spent years volunteering and currently serves on the Osceola Chamber Main Street board and the Chariton Chamber Main Street organization committee. Supporting these organizations allows her to give back and help her communities continue to thrive.
A Life Rooted in Agriculture
Agriculture has always been a huge part of Nicole’s life. Growing up showing livestock led to incredible success, including making the Iowa State Fair Sale of Champions ten times with her sister showing sheep.
Today, that tradition continues with her children, Drew and Macy, who have already made the Sale of Champions three times showing hogs. Watching them grow through 4-H and FFA has been one of Nicole’s greatest joys.
Finding Joy in the Simple Moments
When Nicole has free time, you’ll likely find her in the show barn. Whether she’s helping her kids with their livestock projects or simply watching them grow, it’s where she feels most at home.
Many weekends are spent traveling to cattle and goat shows, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Keeping It Simple
During a busy workday, Nicole keeps it simple. Water and unsweet iced tea are her go-to drinks, paired with easy snacks like cheese sticks or beef jerky.
Nicole’s story is a great example of what community banking is all about; building relationships, supporting dreams, and staying connected to the people and places that matter most.
Member FDIC.
