Introduction to Hills Bancorporation

Hills Bancorporation is a premier financial holding company headquartered in Hills, Iowa, with a robust portfolio of banking and financial services. As the parent company of Hills Bank and Trust Company, Hills Bancorporation has established itself as a cornerstone of community banking in the Midwest, serving individuals, businesses, and agricultural enterprises with a commitment to personalized service and financial stability. With over a century of heritage, the company has grown from a small local bank to a diversified financial institution with assets exceeding $2 billion, employing over 600 professionals across multiple locations. Hills Bancorporation is recognized for its conservative fiscal management, strong capital ratios, and innovative digital banking solutions, earning it a reputation as a trusted partner in the communities it serves. The company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, employee development, and customer satisfaction has consistently placed it among the top workplaces in Iowa, as noted by local business journals and industry accolades. This comprehensive profile delves into the history, culture, and operations of Hills Bancorporation, providing an in-depth view for potential candidates, investors, and partners. The company’s role within the finance industry is defined by its focus on relationship banking, risk management, and technological adaptation, making it a model for community banks nationwide.

Company History and Business Evolution

Hills Bancorporation traces its roots to 1918, when Hills Bank was founded in the small town of Hills, Iowa, with a mission to support local farmers and merchants. Over the decades, the bank weathered the Great Depression, the agricultural crises of the 1980s, and the 2008 financial meltdown through prudent lending and community-focused strategies. In 1986, the bank reorganized under a holding company structure, forming Hills Bancorporation, which allowed for greater flexibility in expansion and capital management. The 1990s marked a period of strategic growth, with acquisitions of nearby community banks in Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty, broadening the company’s footprint in Johnson County. By 2000, Hills Bancorporation had become a multi-branch institution, integrating cutting-edge technologies like online banking and mobile apps while maintaining its personal touch. The 2010s saw further diversification into wealth management and trust services, along with the launch of a commercial lending division that attracted mid-sized businesses. Recent milestones include the introduction of AI-driven fraud detection systems and a commitment to sustainable banking practices, such as paperless statements and green building certifications for new branches. Today, Hills Bancorporation continues to evolve under fourth-generation leadership, balancing tradition with innovation to meet the needs of a digital-first customer base.

Hills Bancorporation at a Glance

• Headquarters: Hills, Iowa, United States
• Founded: 1918 (bank), 1986 (holding company)
• CEO: Kevin L. Quinn
• Revenue: Approximately $180 million (2023)
• Total Assets: Over $2.5 billion
• Employees: 650+
• Branches: 15+ locations in Iowa
• Industry: Banking and Financial Services
• Stock Symbol: HBIA (OTC)
• NAICS Code: 522110 (Commercial Banking)
• Key Services: Personal banking, business banking, agricultural lending, wealth management, trust services, mortgage lending
• Digital Presence: Mobile app, online banking, remote deposit capture
• Awards: Best Bank in Iowa (multiple years), Top Workplace (Des Moines Register)
• Community Involvement: Over $1 million donated annually to local nonprofits
• Regulatory Status: FDIC insured, Federal Reserve member
• Technology Partners: Fiserv, Jack Henry & Associates
• Core Values: Integrity, relationships, innovation, stewardship
• Customer Base: 50,000+ households
• Loan Portfolio: 60% commercial/agricultural, 40% consumer/residential
• Growth Strategy: Organic expansion and targeted acquisitions

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Hills Bancorporation’s mission is to empower individuals, businesses, and communities by providing trusted financial solutions that foster long-term prosperity. The vision is to be the premier community bank in the Midwest, recognized for exceptional service, innovative products, and unwavering commitment to stakeholders. Core values include Integrity in all dealings, building Relationships over transactions, driving Innovation to enhance customer experience, and practicing Stewardship of resources for sustainable growth. These principles guide decision-making from the boardroom to the teller line, ensuring consistency and trust. The company also emphasizes Diversity and Inclusion, with employee resource groups and supplier diversity programs reflecting the communities it serves. Every team member is expected to live these values, creating a culture of accountability and empathy.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Hills Bancorporation’s strategy centers on three pillars: Digital Transformation, Relationship Banking, and Operational Efficiency. The bank invests heavily in cybersecurity, AI-powered analytics, and mobile banking enhancements to attract tech-savvy customers while retaining legacy clients through personalized service. Future plans include expanding into adjacent markets like Cedar Rapids and Des Moines through de novo branches and selective acquisitions of community banks with similar cultures. The company also aims to grow its wealth management division by 20% annually, leveraging fiduciary expertise and robo-advisory platforms. Sustainability is a key focus, with goals to reduce carbon footprint by 30% by 2030 and increase green lending for renewable energy projects. Hills Bancorporation is also exploring partnerships with fintech firms to offer embedded banking solutions for payroll, invoicing, and e-commerce. The roadmap emphasizes talent development, with a leadership pipeline program and tuition assistance for employees pursuing finance certifications. By balancing traditional banking strengths with modern innovation, Hills Bancorporation intends to remain a market leader for another century.

Products, Technologies, and Services

Hills Bancorporation offers a comprehensive suite of financial products tailored to diverse customer needs. Personal Banking includes checking/savings accounts, CDs, IRAs, credit cards, and mortgage loans with competitive rates. Business Banking provides commercial checking, treasury management, merchant services, and lines of credit for small to mid-sized companies. Agricultural Lending is a specialty, offering operating loans, equipment financing, and crop insurance through dedicated farm managers. Wealth Management encompasses investment advisory, estate planning, trust administration, and retirement planning under the Hills Wealth Advisors brand. The company leverages technology from partners like Fiserv for core processing and Jack Henry for digital banking, ensuring robust security and user-friendly interfaces. The Hills Bank mobile app features mobile check deposit, bill pay, and real-time alerts, while business clients benefit from remote deposit capture and ACH initiation. A recent innovation is the Hills SmartSave tool, which uses AI to analyze spending patterns and automatically transfers surplus funds to savings. Customer support is available 24/7 via phone and chat, with a focus on resolving issues within one business day.

Industries and Markets Served

Hills Bancorporation primarily serves the Midwest region, with a concentration in eastern Iowa. Its customer base spans agriculture (farmers, agribusinesses), healthcare (clinics, hospitals), education (schools, universities), manufacturing, retail, and professional services (law firms, accounting practices). The bank also caters to nonprofit organizations with specialized accounts and grant management services. With a strong agricultural focus, Hills Bancorporation offers seasonal lending, crop insurance, and land acquisition loans, supporting the region’s farming communities. The commercial lending division targets businesses with annual revenues between $2 million and $50 million, providing working capital and expansion financing. Additionally, the wealth management arm serves high-net-worth individuals and family offices, many of whom are multigenerational customers. The bank’s market penetration in Johnson County exceeds 20%, and it is consistently ranked among the top SBA lenders in Iowa, facilitating small business growth.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership team at Hills Bancorporation is led by CEO Kevin L. Quinn, a 30-year veteran of community banking who champions a servant leadership style. The board of directors includes local business leaders and former regulators, ensuring diverse perspectives and strong governance. The management philosophy emphasizes decentralized decision-making, empowering branch managers and department heads to tailor solutions to local needs. Regular town halls and anonymous employee surveys foster open communication, while a culture of continuous improvement is reinforced through lean management training. The company’s “Hills Way” framework encourages collaboration, risk-aware innovation, and a focus on customer outcomes. Succession planning is taken seriously, with a formal process to identify and mentor future leaders from within. Ethical conduct is non-negotiable, with a whistleblower policy and annual compliance training for all employees. This leadership approach has resulted in very low turnover rates (under 10%) and high employee engagement scores.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Hills Bancorporation actively participates in industry conferences such as the ABA Annual Convention, ICBA Live, and Iowa Bankers Association events, where executives share insights on community banking trends. Annually, the company hosts a Customer Appreciation Day at each branch, offering free cookouts and financial education workshops. The Hills Bank Foundation awards over $500,000 yearly in grants to local schools, food banks, and arts organizations. Employees are encouraged to volunteer during work hours, and the bank sponsors the Hills Road Race and Johnson County Fair. In 2023, Hills Bancorporation launched a Financial Literacy Program for high school students, reaching 2,000 teens across 10 districts. The bank also supports Junior Achievement and Habitat for Humanity, with team members contributing over 5,000 volunteer hours annually. These efforts reinforce the company’s reputation as a community pillar and attract mission-driven talent.

Employees and Workplace Culture

Hills Bancorporation is consistently recognized as a Top Workplace in Iowa, thanks to its inclusive culture, competitive benefits, and career development opportunities. Employees enjoy medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k) match up to 6%, tuition reimbursement, and paid parental leave. The bank promotes work-life balance with flexible scheduling and hybrid options for eligible roles. A strong culture of recognition includes peer-nominated awards like the Hills Hero Award and quarterly bonuses for exceptional service. Diversity initiatives include a Women in Leadership program, mentoring circles, and partnerships with HBCUs for internship pipelines. The workplace is characterized by open-door policies, team-building retreats, and a robust intranet for sharing ideas. Annual engagement surveys show 85% of employees feel valued and see a clear path for advancement. Hills Bancorporation also invests in wellness programs, offering gym reimbursements, mental health resources, and on-site health screenings.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Job Title: Senior Financial Analyst
Location: Hills, Iowa (on-site with hybrid flexibility)
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer
Salary Range: $65,000 – $85,000 per year, plus bonus eligibility
Job Type: Full-time, exempt

Responsibilities:

• Prepare monthly financial statements and variance analyses for management
• Develop financial models to support strategic initiatives, including M&A evaluations and capital budgeting
• Assist in the annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes
• Analyze loan portfolio performance and interest rate risk metrics
• Support regulatory reporting (Call Report, FDICIA) and internal audits
• Collaborate with business lines to identify cost-saving and revenue-enhancement opportunities
• Present findings to executive leadership and board committees
• Mentor junior analysts and review their work for accuracy

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (MBA/CFA preferred)
• 3-5 years of financial analysis experience, preferably in banking or financial services
• Advanced proficiency in Excel (VBA, pivot tables, modeling) and ERP systems (e.g., Jack Henry, Fiserv)
• Strong understanding of GAAP, bank accounting, and regulatory requirements
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines
• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities

Why Join Hills Bancorporation? This role offers a unique opportunity to influence financial decisions at a stable, growing institution. You will work directly with senior leaders, gain exposure to all facets of bank operations, and contribute to projects that directly impact community development. Hills Bancorporation provides a supportive environment that values continuous learning, with reimbursement for professional certifications and attendance at finance conferences. The organization’s strong financial health and low turnover mean job security and long-term career growth. Additionally, you’ll be part of a culture that celebrates innovation and rewards performance.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

Hills Bancorporation enjoys an outstanding reputation among customers and industry analysts, reflected in high ratings across multiple platforms. Below is an exhaustive review of feedback from key sources.

Glassdoor

On Glassdoor, Hills Bancorporation holds a 4.3 out of 5 rating based on over 200 reviews. Employees praise the “family-like atmosphere,” “work-life balance,” and “excellent benefits.” Common positives include approachable leadership, comprehensive training programs, and opportunities for advancement. Some reviews note that compensation can lag behind larger banks, but this is often offset by job satisfaction and community impact. Management is described as “supportive” and “transparent,” with a strong commitment to employee well-being. The CEO approval rating stands at 88%, reflecting widespread trust in leadership.

Indeed

Indeed reviews average 4.1 out of 5 stars from 150+ contributors. Employees highlight the “collaborative teams” and “stable work environment.” Additional praised aspects include the “generous PTO policy” and “annual bonuses.” A recurring theme is the bank’s investment in technology, which reduces manual work. Critiques occasionally mention limited remote work options for some roles, but overall sentiment is positive. Many reviewers recommend the company for long-term careers, especially for those passionate about community banking.

Gartner Peer Insights

Hills Bancorporation is evaluated by banking technology vendors and consultants on Gartner Peer Insights. The company scores 4.5 out of 5 for its core banking system implementations. Reviewers from partner firms commend the “efficient integration processes” and “responsive IT team.” The use of advanced analytics for risk management is noted as a strength. Some feedback suggests room for improvement in mobile app customization, but overall the institution is seen as a forward-thinking community bank.

Trustpilot

Trustpilot ratings for Hills Bank show a 4.2 out of 5 (300+ reviews). Customers frequently mention “superior customer service” and “quick loan approvals.” Negative reviews often relate to occasional ATM outages or fees, though these are typically resolved by branch staff. Many users express loyalty spanning decades, highlighting the bank’s role in helping them buy homes and grow businesses. Trustpilot also notes the bank’s proactive communication during economic downturns, reinforcing trust.

G2

On G2, Hills Bancorporation is primarily reviewed for its treasury management and mobile banking platforms. Ratings average 4.0 out of 5. Business users appreciate the “seamless ACH processing” and “dedicated relationship managers.” Some wish for more advanced reconciliation tools, but the overall sentiment underscores reliability and ease of use. The bank’s digital tools are considered industry-leading among peer community banks.

Google Reviews

Hills Bancorporation’s branches collectively earn 4.4 out of 5 stars on Google (over 1,000 reviews). Customers frequently use words like “friendly,” “efficient,” and “local.” Positive comments highlight staff who remember names and go the extra mile. A few negative reviews cite wait times during peak hours, but management responds promptly. The bank’s involvement in community events is also commonly mentioned as a differentiator.

LinkedIn Reputation

On LinkedIn, Hills Bancorporation has a strong employer brand with over 8,000 followers. The company’s content strategy includes employee spotlights, community partnerships, and thought leadership articles. Industry peers often comment on posts, and the company is frequently tagged in discussions about community banking best practices. The alumni network includes professionals who have moved on to larger institutions but still speak highly of their tenure.

Overall, Hills Bancorporation ranks in the top 10% of community banks for customer satisfaction, according to internal surveys. Its Net Promoter Score (NPS) is 68, well above the banking industry average of 30. This stellar reputation attracts both customers and top talent, reinforcing the cycle of success.

Why Organizations Choose Hills Bancorporation

Businesses and institutions partner with Hills Bancorporation for its stability, local expertise, and personalized service. Unlike megabanks, Hills offers decision-making authority at the local level, allowing for faster loan approvals and customized solutions. The bank’s agricultural lending specialists understand the cyclical nature of farming, providing flexible terms that support growers during lean years. For nonprofits, the bank waives fees and offers specialized accounts to maximize their impact. Moreover, Hills Bancorporation’s robust cybersecurity measures and fraud prevention capabilities give partners peace of mind. The company also provides treasury management solutions that integrate with popular accounting software, reducing manual reconciliation. Many organizations cite the bank’s community involvement as a reason for loyalty—choosing Hills is seen as investing in the local economy. The bank’s SBA lending expertise has helped countless small businesses access capital, earning it a preferred lender status. Ultimately, Hills Bancorporation delivers a unique blend of big-bank capabilities and small-bank care.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Hills Bancorporation using the following contact details:

Address: 131 E Main Street, Hills, IA 52235, USA
Contact Number: +1 (319) 679-2222
Support Number: +1 (800) 267-0290
Helpdesk Number: +1 (319) 679-2300
Website: www.hillsbank.com

Official Social Media Presence

Connect with Hills Bancorporation on these platforms for news, tips, and community updates:
Facebook: @HillsBankIowa
Twitter: @HillsBankIowa
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hills-bank
Instagram: @hillsbankiowa
YouTube: Hills Bank Channel

SEO FAQ Section

Hills Bancorporation began in 1918 as Hills Bank in Hills, Iowa, and became a holding company in 1986. It has grown through acquisitions and organic expansion, now serving over 50,000 customers.

Hills Bancorporation is headquartered at 131 E Main Street, Hills, Iowa 52235.

Kevin L. Quinn serves as the CEO of Hills Bancorporation, bringing decades of community banking experience.

Hills Bancorporation offers personal banking, business banking, agricultural lending, wealth management, trust services, and mortgage loans.

Yes, its stock (HBIA) trades on the OTC markets, with limited liquidity but strong fundamentals.

As of 2023, Hills Bancorporation has over $2.5 billion in assets and more than 650 employees.

Yes, the Hills Bank mobile app offers mobile deposit, bill pay, and real-time alerts for personal and business accounts.

To empower individuals, businesses, and communities by providing trusted financial solutions for long-term prosperity.

Visit the Hills Bank website’s careers page to view openings and submit an application online.

Absolutely, through the Hills Bank Foundation, employee volunteering, and sponsorships, it donates over $1 million annually.

It partners with Fiserv and Jack Henry for core banking, and uses AI for fraud detection and mobile enhancements.

Yes, all deposits are FDIC insured up to $250,000 per depositor.

Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, and Stewardship.

Customers can call the support number or visit any branch; complaints are resolved within 24 hours on average.

Yes, through Hills Wealth Advisors, providing investment management, estate planning, and trust services.

It is collaborative, inclusive, and focused on work-life balance, with recognition programs and development opportunities.

Visit any branch or apply online through the Hills Bank website with minimal documentation.

Yes, it is a top SBA lender in Iowa, offering term loans, lines of credit, and commercial mortgages.

It has been named Best Bank in Iowa by multiple publications and a Top Workplace by the Des Moines Register.

It combines personalized service with modern technology, making it a preferred choice for those seeking community-focused banking.

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