Translating Banker-Speak into Results.
Expert advisement and support for financial institutions, boards, and individuals navigating complex banking challenges.
30+ Years in Executive Banking Leadership
Proven Track Record in Turnarounds & Growth
Trusted Board Advisor & Change Agent
Featured in Bank Director, American Banker, Des Moines Business Record, and BankTalk Podcast
About Jeff
Jeffrey P. Rose is the founder and CEO of Bank Whisperer, LLC, a consultancy dedicated to guiding financial institutions and individuals through today’s complex banking landscape.
With more than three decades of C-level experience across community, corporate, agricultural, and energy lending, Jeff has built a reputation as a turnaround specialist and change agent. He has successfully led organizations through regulatory challenges, major rebranding initiatives, and rapid growth strategies, always with a focus on building strong teams and sustainable success.
Following his 2025 retirement from a distinguished career as President and CEO of American Bank & Trust, Jeff launched Bank Whisperer, LLC to share his expertise in board governance, strategic planning, and complex financial negotiations.
Education & Recognition
MBA, Finance, University of North Texas (4.0 GPA) — Named MBA of the Year by the Financial Executives Institute, Fort Worth Chapter
BBA, Finance, University of Iowa
Member, Beta Gamma Sigma National Business Honor Society
Community Leadership
Board roles with Illinois Bankers Association, Two Rivers YMCA, Unity Point Health Foundation, Renew Moline, and more
Active leadership in community and economic development organizations
“Jeff Rose has earned a reputation for leading banks out of trouble.”
Services
For Financial Institutions
Board Governance & Leadership Consulting: Strengthening board-administration relationships and accountability frameworks.
Turnaround & Risk Strategy: Expertise in loan work-outs, debtor-in-possession lending programs, and portfolio risk management.
Change Management: Helping institutions navigate regulatory scrutiny, reorganization, and strategic growth.
Branding & Strategic Planning: Guiding rebrands, new product rollouts, and digital transformations.
For Businesses & Individuals
Loan Navigation & Negotiation: Translating banker-speak into clear strategies for securing financing.
Conflict Resolution: Acting as a bridge between clients and financial institutions to overcome roadblocks.
Financial Coaching: Helping business owners and individuals make informed financial decisions.
Growth Support: Structuring financing and banking relationships to match long-term goals.
Media & Insights
Jeff’s expertise is regularly featured in national financial publications and podcasts:
Bank Director: Credit Storm (2023)
Des Moines Business Record: Digging Into Responsibility Risk (2023)
BankTalk Podcast: Do You Need a Digital Guru in Your Financial Institution?(2023)
American Banker Interview (2018) (access restricted)
Coming soon: Jeff’s own insights and articles via the Bank Whisperer Blog.
Contact
Case Studies
American Bank & Trust
Successfully led turnaround from regulatory scrutiny to profitability
52% loan growth, 30% asset growth
Pre-tax, pre-provision income growth exceeding $3M
Full rebrand aligned with core values
Community 1st Credit Union
Spearheaded Hispanic community outreach initiative → first in Iowa to receive Juntos Avanzamos designation
Integrated a failed credit union and expanded services
Southeast National Bank
Achieved 20% net loan growth in 2012, followed by 10.5% growth in 2013
Oversaw acquisition of Buffalo Savings Bank, increasing shareholder value