When Jadira Hoptry tells her story, it’s clear she approaches every decision with intent. From presenting her father with a business case that she should leave her native Puerto Rico and attend college at the University of Florida to choosing roles where she can make the most impact in her community, the First Merchants Director of Community Lending and Development’s career is marked by a deliberate balance of high performance and commitment to helping others.
After earning her degree in Business Administration from University of Florida, Jadira began her career in restaurant management. In her spare time, she served as a “budget counselor” for friends and coworkers, and soon recognized a real need for financial education in her community. Shortly thereafter, she made the move into the banking industry–in part because she believed it was where she could have the most significant impact.
Within a few years, she had managed three banking centers in low- to moderate-income (LMI) areas. At each one, she improved profitability, assisted in the development of mortgage products, and built a diverse and thriving small business portfolio. Finishing as top performer in serving businesses and individuals for multiple years opened the door for Jadira to transition to Community Development, where she launched initiatives for regions under her purview to create profitable LMI banking centers and to earn an Outstanding Rating.