2013 40 Under Forty: Osman Acheampong

Acheampong

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Title: Vice President of Credit Administration, Bay State Savings Bank

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Worcester

Favorite movie: “12 Angry Men”

Favorite book: “The Conference of the Birds,” by Farid ud-Din Attar

Career highlights: After earning a degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in financial mathematics from WPI, I had no idea what career path I would take. Today, I have more than 10 years of experience in banking and the most satisfying job at Bay State Savings Bank. I am responsible for ensuring that the bank adheres to best credit standards while striving to maintain its reputation as the community bank of choice in Worcester. Prior to joining Bay State, I was a financial analyst at Sovereign Bank for four years, previously having worked at DCU for five years.

Community involvement: My sense of community involvement moved to a whole new level when I joined Bay State. I am a member of the board of directors of the Elm Park Center for Early Childhood Education. I am also a member of the board of directors of WICN-The NPR Jazz Station (90.5 FM). Over the last 24 months, I have volunteered for the United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Relay for Life and countless other Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce activities.

Biggest success: Within 12 months of joining Bay State Savings Bank, I was promoted to vice president. In this capacity, not only am I responsible for managing the credit function of the bank, but I also am required to be a representative of the bank in the community.

Biggest challenge: Professionally, the biggest challenge is keeping up with the ever-increasing regulation of the banking industry, which includes the challenge of being able to serve my customers efficiently, without burdening them with the effect of adhering to these regulations. On a personal level, I am one of 10 children; the biggest challenge is keeping in touch with all my siblings.

Mentors: By far, the person who has inspired me the most is my grandmother. All the things she taught me about hard work and ethics have become the very lessons that guide me in my personal and professional life. She taught me that hard work pays off wherever you are and that if one honestly works hard and takes every task seriously, one will eventually find their reward. Professionally, I credit my friend and mentor Thomas Burr at People’s United Bank for most of what I know about my job today.

Hidden talents: I love playing ping pong though I hardly find time to play. I also play soccer, although these days I enjoy watching more than playing.

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