Tom Cesar has been an IT expert for many years. He leads Hawaii National Bank’s Information Technology Department. Hawaii National Bank positions itself as an independent community-oriented bank, with expertise in lending to closely held and family-owned businesses. The bank is a relatively small institution with business and retail accounts, but Cesar notes it must still meet the same requirements of compliancy as any large institution.

Cesar got his degree in Telecommunications from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 1984. He began his IT career at Data 1 Computer Centers, where he was Business Store Manager and Trainer for the organization’s only Business Center. He served as a Technical Lecturer and Instructor at the University of Hawaii Manoa , Kapiolani Community College and the Japanese American Institute Management Science, headed up his own business called Networx Unlimited, Inc., was Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Century Computers, Inc and Business Development Manager at Sprint, Hawaii, before joining Hawaii National Bank.

Cesar calls technology the lifeblood of the bank.

Pacific News Bytes asked Cesar to share his thoughts on Hawaii National Bank and his role in Hawaii’s banking industry, as it relates to technology…

What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned during your time in the banking industry?
As I am still relatively new to banking (four years); from an IT perspective I have a far better understanding of the various security concerns, regulation, compliance, and business continuity issues that financial institutions are faced with. It’s ever changing and quite daunting!

How has the Hawaii banking industry grown, or changed, over the past few decades?
Banking is a very competitive industry; not only with rates and products, but also with delivering services to meet a broad range of customer needs. Internet banking and ATM’s are ubiquitous. The challenge is to differentiate oneself in what has become a commoditized market space while continuing to speed the delivery of new products and services without compromising safety and soundness.

How has technology helped your industry?
Efficiency, simply enabling banks to be more nimble and competitive in an aggressive marketplace. Banks can now reach out to customers and provide a wider range of products and services. Banks are becoming more responsive and far more intuitive. Data mining and other analytical tools allow bankers to tailor products and services to their customers.

Who is your greatest influence and why?
My family, by far. However, there are a select few mentors that have really helped shape my life personally and professionally for which I am greatly indebted.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
The people, the environment, and of course the challenge. I have an opportunity to experience not only a high demand, ever-changing, high-tech environment; but have the opportunity to develop skills and a better understanding and appreciation of the financial industry.