Career Spotlight: Joseph C. LeMense (C'82)

Market President, United Bank - Maryland

Describe your current position and what led you to your job:

I head up commercial lending and Main Street clientele. I have oversight over a team of commercial lenders and indirect responsibility for a seven-location network of retail bank branches.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your career?

Financing low-income housing projects and banking with the kids of former/older clients.

What is the best career advice you have received?

Always make a copy of whatever you do. Don’t volunteer and always read the bulletin boards.

What would you recommend to someone interested in working in your field?

Give it a try for a couple of years. If you like it, stick with it; if not, go back to graduate school.

What challenges have you faced and how did you successfully manage one situation?

When the economy sours, so do the banks – I take a deep breath and dredge on – it’s not brain cancer, its banking.

What skills are necessary or what prepared you the most for your career?

People and analytical skills.

What professional associations have aided in your professional development?

Rotary, various chambers of commerce, the Georgetown University Alumni Association.

If you could have another career what would it be?

National Geographic photographer or a High School history teacher.

How did your time at Georgetown University influence you and your career path?

A Georgetown degree is recognized in the local D.C. business community as an excellent credential. Commercial banks have historically been drawn to GU grads and that’s how I got started in banking.