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The elder DiSante, also named Mike, owned a restaurant in West Harrison and his approach to customer service and relationships impacted his son, now the Branch Manager at The Westchester Bank’s newest location at 305 Mamaroneck Ave. in Mamaroneck, which is set to open Monday, Dec. 21.
“A lot of the restaurant business is behind the door,’’ DiSante said. “But a lot of it is in front, too. My father was a front guy. He became friends with everybody who came into the restaurant. They kept coming back. It’s a different business, but I’ve looked at banking the same way. It’s about developing relationships, creating a friendly atmosphere and delivering great customer service.”
DiSante also acquired cooking skills from his father. It’s not unusual for him throw together dinner parties for his wife and children, including holiday meals. “I don’t mind picking up a pan and playing around in the kitchen,’’ DiSante said. “My wife and my children enjoy when I cook, and it’s something I like to do, too.”
DiSante, who joined The Westchester Bank last month, has 30 years of experience at banks of various sizes. He prefers the smaller bank atmosphere, which prompted his move.
“I function better in a local community bank atmosphere,’’ DiSante said. “I don’t like the concept of a big box bank. The Westchester Bank is a touchy, feely people’s bank. Their relationships matter.”
From the moment DiSante joined the Bank, he found a welcoming atmosphere from the top down. “Everyone is very upbeat, personable and helpful,’’ DiSante said. “The success of the community is the success of the bank, and vice versa. That approach resonates with me. I like to call it ‘Back to the Future Banking.’ All banks started like this but over the years the bigger banks have gotten away from that.”
DiSante said family and friends have seen a noticeable change in his demeanor since joining The Westchester Bank. “Some former colleagues have called me two or three times since I got here and they can tell I’m happy,’’ he said. “My wife noticed it the very first week. Working for The Westchester Bank is a great fit for me.”
