About Jeff Rose

Founder & CEO, Bank Whisperer, LLC

Translating Banker-Speak into Results

With more than three decades of executive leadership across community, corporate, agricultural, and energy lending, Jeffrey P. Rose has earned a national reputation for helping financial institutions and individuals navigate the complex world of banking.

Known for his ability to “translate banker-speak into real results,” Jeff founded Bank Whisperer, LLC after a celebrated 30-year career leading banks through transformation, growth, and regulatory recovery. His mission: to help others achieve clarity, stability, and success in the most challenging financial environments.

Portrait of a smiling middle-aged man with short light brown hair, dressed in a gray suit, light blue shirt, and a purple patterned tie.

A Career Defined by Turnarounds and Trust

Jeff’s track record speaks for itself:

  • American Bank & Trust (2016–2025) – As President, CEO, and Board Director, Jeff led one of the Midwest’s most remarkable bank turnarounds. Under his leadership, the bank saw 52% loan growth, 30% asset growth, over $3M in new pre-tax income, and a successful end to regulatory oversight.

  • Community 1st Credit Union (2014–2016) – Guided strategic expansion, including a statewide rebrand, new digital services, and the launch of Iowa’s first Juntos Avanzamos-designated credit union for Hispanic outreach.

  • Southeast National Bank (2011–2014) – Delivered double-digit loan growth and oversaw the successful acquisition of Buffalo Savings Bank, creating strong shareholder value.

Before his CEO roles, Jeff held senior executive positions at JP Morgan Chase, US Bank, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, giving him a deep understanding of both large-scale corporate and community banking operations.

A Trusted Voice in the Industry

Jeff’s insight and leadership have been featured in national publications including:

  • Bank Director Magazine — “The Seven Deadly Sins of Bank Boards” (2025), “Credit Storm” (2023), and “What CEOs Want” (2019)

  • American Banker — Interview on bank turnaround strategy (2018)

  • Des Moines Business Record — “Digging Into Responsibility Risk” (2023)

  • BankTalk Podcast — “Do You Need a Digital Guru?” (2023)

As Bank Director Magazine noted, “Jeff Rose has earned a reputation for leading banks out of trouble.” His leadership philosophy—rooted in transparency, accountability, and collaboration—has made him a sought-after advisor for boards and executives nationwide.

Education & Recognition

  • MBA in Finance, University of North Texas (4.0 GPA) — MBA of the Year, Financial Executives Institute

  • BBA in Finance, University of Iowa

  • Member, Beta Gamma Sigma National Business Honor Society

Community Leadership

Jeff believes strong institutions are built on strong communities. Over the years, he has served on numerous boards and foundations, including:

  • Illinois Bankers Association (Board & Executive Committee)

  • Unity Point Health / Trinity Foundation (Vice Chair & Treasurer)

  • Two Rivers YMCA (Executive Committee)

  • Renew Moline (Economic Development)

  • Mid-Iowa Council, Boy Scouts of America (Executive Board)

A New Chapter: The Bank Whisperer

Upon his 2025 retirement, Jeff launched Bank Whisperer, LLC to continue doing what he does best—helping banks, boards, and individuals find clarity in complexity.

Through expert advisement, leadership coaching, and strategic consultation, he empowers clients to make confident financial decisions and strengthen their institutions from the inside out.

“At the end of the day, banking is about people. When communication improves, performance follows.”
— Jeffrey P. Rose

Contact