Scott Haen of Johnson Bank is Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce's Business Person of the Month

The Brookfield Chamber’s Business Person of the Month recognizes an exceptional business member. The monthly recognition is given to a Chamber member that excels in the areas of business excellence, community engagement and entrepreneurial spirit. This business person is saluted by the Brookfield Chamber’s board of directors and featured on our website, Facebook page, and LinkedIn group.

Name: Scott Haen

Company/organization/address: Johnson Bank, 14000 W North Avenue, Brookfield, WI 53005

Website: www.johnsonbank.com

Industry: Banking

What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?

It’s hard to choose just one. Our core values continue to guide everything we do, including a passion for making decisions with our clients’ best interest in mind. In the past year, we have:

• Acquired Cleary Gull Advisors, a Milwaukee-based wealth management and institutional advisory firm, to better serve our wealth clients.
• Partnered with the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce to sponsor the “Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin,” a statewide contest to celebrate Wisconsin businesses.
• Hosted a variety of informative events for our clients to help them achieve their financial goals.

How many years have you been in business?

Forty-seven years - in 1970, Samuel C. Johnson founded Johnson Bank with a vision of unmatched personal service and a commitment to our communities. Since then, we continue to serve our customers under the direction of Johnson Financial Group chairman, Helen Johnson-Leipold, representing the fifth generation of engaged family leadership.

What advice can you give to struggling business owners?

Trusted partnerships with your associates, customers and community serve as the foundation of your business and its success. Engage and connect with people and organizations who are dedicated to helping you succeed. Regardless of industry, a business is only as great its people. Build strong relationships with your internal and external business partners. Take great care of your associates, and it will translate into exceptional service for your customers. Tap into the expertise of partners who can help you with specific needs and goals whether it is marketing, finances, or strategic planning. To put it simply, surround yourself with those who are invested in your long term success.

As someone doing business in the metro Milwaukee area, how does the Brookfield Chamber help you?

The Brookfield Chamber has helped me get connected in the community. When I moved over to Johnson Bank’s Brookfield location, the first thing I did was attend a Chamber ribbon-cutting at a local business. I was shocked at the number of people I met that day and even ran out of business cards! In my years of banking, never before had I run out of business cards at a networking event. I continued to attend different events and meet more business owners, business professionals, and local politicians. Today, some of these connections are now customers of mine, and some of these connections are even helping my customers.

Do you have any advice for new business owners?

Get connected and stay connected. It’s good to network when you first start your business, but new businesses are opening every day. This means that you not only want to meet these owners, but you should also remain in the forefront of your connections minds as they meet your competitors.

What would your colleagues be surprised to find out about you?

My ideal vacation usually involves my family, a tent, and a canoe. Tropical beaches are great, but being in nature with those closest to you is a real adventure.

How long have you been a Brookfield Chamber member? How do you contribute to the Chamber?

I joined the Brookfield Chamber at the beginning of 2015, but Johnson Bank has been a member since 2008. I contribute to the Chamber by being an active member and attending Business After 5 networking events, local ribbon-cuttings, and Business After 5 networking events. As an Ambassador for the Chamber, I also meet with new members, discuss the opportunities and benefits of membership, and invite them to join me at upcoming events.

The Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce is the largest business organization in Brookfield, and the leading business organization representing the interests of business in Brookfield and the surrounding area. GBCC recognizes the value in creating collaborative partnerships with other chambers in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties. These partnerships expand the reach, influence, and visibility of the Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce and provide additional benefits to its membership.

For more information, please contact Carol White, President, Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce, at 262-786-1886 or carol@brookfieldchamber.com. www.brookfieldchamber.com