Employed at Hills Bank 1969-1985 1969 “ Take care of the customer
and the rest will take care of itself.”
- John R. Hughes, President and CEO 1975-1985
J ohn Hughes joined the bank in 1969. Following Albert’s death in 1975, John was named president. John’s philosophy was, “Take care of the customer and the rest will take care of itself.” His focus on the customer, “can do” attitude, and leadership continued the Hills Bank traditions creating the vision for future growth. John’s enthusiasm for growing the bank and his relationships with customers led to a heightened interest in the bank and its annual meetings. This increased attendance at the meetings from a few people to over 200.
The old Rock Island Railroad became the link to connect Hills to Iowa City and enabled the bank to build a second location.
For many years, Iowa banking law allowed banks to establish a bank branch only in towns where the boundaries were contiguous. In 1979, the city of Hills annexed their small town to Iowa City by way of the old Rock Island Railroad track, which connected Hills to Iowa City. This annexation, coupled with John’s leadership, provided an opportunity for the first Hills Bank location to be opened outside of Hills, in the city of Iowa City. Hills Bank could then better serve its customers in the Iowa City area.
1979 The old Rock Island Railroad is annexed by the city of Hills to Iowa City.
1977 The bank’s first drive-up window is installed at the newly-remodeled Hills office.
1981 The bank’s first automatic teller machine (ATM) is installed in the Hills lobby.
1975-1985 John R. Hughes serves as president.
1979-1995 Charles W. Gay serves as chairman of the board.
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