Brian Ellsworth

Compassionate. Dedicated. Reliable.

Current Employer & Job Title: Champlain National Bank, Multi-Site Branch Manager

Age: 36 | Hometown: Plattsburgh, NY |

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Siena

For Brian Ellsworth, leadership has never been about being the loudest person in the room. In fact, much of his approach centers on listening — creating an environment where people feel comfortable being honest, asking questions, and working through challenges together.

In three words, how would others describe your personal brand—and where do those traits show up most in your work?

Compassionate, Dedicated, Reliable.

These values are present in how I collaborate with my team, how I interact with all clients, and how I approach challenging situations.

What aspect of your organization’s culture do you protect or promote most fiercely—and how have you influenced it?

Personally, I believe the most important thing to protect is a healthy and positive work environment. I make sure my team feels comfortable approaching me with any conflicts or issues that may arise.

Where do you invest your time outside of work, and what motivates your commitment to those efforts?

I spend a lot of time outside of work with my family. I am very fortunate to have a close bond with my family, and I am committed to showing them how much they mean to me after they have done so much for me.

Who has most influenced your leadership style—and what specific lesson from them still shapes how you lead today?

I had a manager that was very open and created an atmosphere that allowed others to be open with their communication. It’s important to make sure each person knows I am always willing to listen and want the best for them.

Where are you making your greatest impact right now—in your organization, industry, or community—and how do you measure it?

I believe my biggest impact is within the organization with my direct team. I measure this by all the people I have trained, their professional growth, and interest to further their career.

What’s something about you that would surprise people—and what does it reveal about how you think or operate?

I am extremely competitive and am an avid sports fan. This gives me a strong desire to succeed and brings passion to my work.

What is one lesson your career has taught you that you had to learn the hard way—and how has it changed you?

Early in my management career, I used to believe that management should be a certain way and now I have learned everyone is unique and your management style should be adjusted accordingly for each coworker. You need to spend time with each team member to figure out what motivates them, what makes them happy and what they will need to grow within the company. I look at this similar to a coach having to use different drills or methods to ensure all team members can be successful. This has allowed me to become a more effective leader and coach.

What is the biggest professional or personal risk you’ve taken—and would you make the same decision again? Why or why not?

I believe one of the biggest risks I have taken is accepting the position of teller after graduating with a Degree in Accounting instead of taking the typical route such as working as a CPA. I took the position because I had a lot of self-doubt about my capabilities. I started as a teller at another institution and worked my way up to manager with Champlain National Bank. Knowing what I know now, I would not make the same decision as I now have the courage to fight through any self-doubt. However, I wouldn’t be the leader I am now without taking that risk.