Steven Costa
First Vice President, C&I Lending, Beacon Bank: Age 34
Steve Costa started his professional career in public accounting, with one of the Big Four firms. He enjoyed that work — but “didn’t love it” — and had no real intention to make a change until a friend, mentor, fellow churchgoer, and chief credit officer with a local bank gave him something to think about.
“He pulled my arm and said, ‘I think this is something you’d be really good at; you’re extroverted, you have a good personality for it, you’re relationship-driven, sales-oriented, and high-energy. I think you’d do well at this banking thing.’”
Turns out, he was right. Costa has done pretty well at this ‘banking thing,’ and because of all those attributes he listed.
He started at Country Bank and later moved to Berkshire Bank (now Beacon Bank), where he has been promoted several times and currently serves as first vice president, C&I Lending, managing a $150 million portfolio that has grown steadily over the years. He finds the work rewarding on many levels.
“I love the people, love the relationships, love making a difference,” he said. “The networking side of it is awesome. Being high-energy myself, I like getting out and meeting people, hearing about their life stories, learning about their businesses, knowing that a good banker can actually make a real big difference at a company.
“Every bank’s money is green,” he went on. “But that relationship side of the business is extremely important, and I enjoy working with people and helping them reach their goals. Seeing a business grow, hire new employees, and contribute to the local economy … it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about making a real impact.”
While doing that, he’s making an impact on other fronts as well. Indeed, Costa is active in the community, serving as a member of the Square One finance committee and as a member of the St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral audit committee. And through his church, he serves various volunteer efforts, including Glendi, its annual Greek festival, and teaching Sunday school.
He also supports cancer fundraising efforts through his role on the executive leadership committee for the American Cancer Society’s Massachusetts golf tournament, and volunteers with agencies and causes ranging from Junior Achievement to the Zoo in Forest Park.
When not doing any of that, he’s spending time with his family — his wife Kerri and son Crew — which will get larger soon; a second child is due at the end of this month.
—George O’Brien
