FirstBank believes in ensuring diversity is represented at each level of the organization. In September and October, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing and celebrating some of FirstBank’s Hispanic employees.

Today, we’re featuring Alejandro Gastelum, West Market Branch Manager.

Hometown: Mazatlán, Sinaloa, México

Years at FirstBank: 9 Years

1. In three to four sentences, describe your experience in getting to where you are today.

Growing up, I never thought I’d end up working at a bank in the U.S., but circumstances brought me and my mom to the States. Her desire for a better and more stable life gave her the courage to migrate from Mexico to Colorado, where we settled to build our new life. I became a FirstBanker out of pure necessity for a new job and stayed because of the promotional opportunities. As I worked closer with my manager to adopt a leadership and management philosophy, I was captivated by the impact I could make on other employees’ lives, and their growth and development became the focus of my leadership journey. That’s why I love the work I do.

2. How has FirstBank’s companywide philosophy of “banking for good” impacted your life and your career?

“Banking for good” has allowed me to care about my customers and peers on a deeper level. Growing up in the Latin community, I’m aware that my community doesn’t use or fully understand the culture of banking. To me, “banking for good” means ensuring my customers understand the benefits of a healthy financial life, learn to trust their bank, and feel empowered to ask questions.

3. What is the best career advice you have for the next generation of leaders? What would you tell someone just starting out?  

I would say, model what you want to see in others and drive the change you’d like to observe. We tend to forget that others look up to those in leadership positions, and they will emulate behaviors, good or bad. Remembering this makes it easier to catch oneself in moments when we’re not necessarily acting to the best of our abilities. Being the driver of change gives you the power to slowly chip away at those habits or customs that have been in place for so long but need to be changed. It may feel like it doesn’t make a difference, but even the smallest disturbance to the status quo can create a ripple effect that creates major change.

4. Who do you look up to personally and professionally?

Personally, I look up to my mom and my brother. They both have shaped who I am in different ways. My mom was able to turn our lives around from not having the greatest advantages in the beginning but, her perseverance got us to where we are now. My younger brother has truly grown up to be a man of incredible strength and has dealt with life’s difficulties in an admirable way.

Professionally, I look up to my Retail Manager, Kris Galbreath. I admire how she keeps a calm and collected attitude through tough times. She is also someone who constantly looks for ways to challenge the status quo to create impactful leaders, both professionally and personally. She consistently drives the change she wants to see, which is why she was instrumental in developing a pivotal role in the bank. 

5. What do you like to do when you’re not at work?

I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy hanging out at home, having a nice conversation, and enjoying a delicious dinner, or playing Loteria. When I’m alone, I enjoy reading and watching movies or shows.

6. Considering September and October is Hispanic Heritage Month, which historical figure/s would you most like to meet and why?

I would love to meet Guillermo del Toro. As I mentioned before, I love movies, so I’m always interested in how stories come to be and how the magic behind the screen happens. Guillermo pushed the boundaries of the cinematic experience in Mexico so he could pursue his dream in Hollywood. He has become such a renowned name in the film industry and consistently makes our people proud with his outstanding work. He also seems like a really nice guy.

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