It all comes down to one simple promise for Senior Vice President and Branch Manager Michael Prince and his staff: people first.
“Our customer service is our number one goal,” Prince said. “We provide professional service in a hometown atmosphere. We try to strive for that every day—to ... work with our customers and to try to be the best.”
That personal approach shows up in big and small ways. While larger banks often rely on call centers and automated systems, Sonora Bank’s team members know their customers and build real connections with them.
One example is Jerry, a longtime Hutto resident, who regularly stops by to deposit money and chat about his weekend projects.
Those relationships extend beyond the branch walls. Sonora Bank has made community involvement a cornerstone of its culture, from hosting chamber of commerce events to sponsoring the Williamson County Rodeo. The team also supports local schools with initiatives such as providing backpacks and supplies.
“[We’re] located so close to the high school,” Vice President of Marketing and Advertising Heather Carleston said. “Michael and his team have done a lot to really get involved over there.”
For Prince, showing up for the community is simply part of the job.
“We try to be as active and involved in the community as we can,” he said.
The best of both worlds: modern tools with a hometown touch
The bank emphasizes personal service, but it also knows that technology matters. Customers can access online banking, mobile apps and debit card services while still receiving the human support that community banking is known for.
“We try to provide as much technology as we can,” Prince said. “Then, [we] also provide really good customer service as far as helping our customers and clients with their needs, being upfront with people and being responsive.”
That balance makes banking approachable for all generations, whether someone is a longtime resident or opening their very first account.
Helping the next generation build smart financial habits
This fall, Sonora Bank launched new accounts designed specifically for minors and students. Prince said the goal is to help Gen Z build healthy financial habits early.
“Usually, people keep [their first] account for a long period of time,” Prince said. “By having an account here and working with a local community bank, we can help them one-on-one to grow.”
Growth and culture
A strong team culture is behind every customer interaction. Prince credits the leadership and staff for creating an environment where employees support one another and share in the mission of service.
“Our team is really active. Everybody’s really happy, and it’s a very welcoming place,” Prince said. “People always compliment us on the [look of] the branch and on the people here, too.”
That culture starts at the top.
“From executive management down, ... everybody’s really helpful,” Prince said. “Everybody wants everybody to ... succeed.”
As the Hutto area continues to grow, so does Sonora Bank’s commitment. With development booming across Hutto, Taylor, Round Rock and Georgetown, the bank sees itself as a long-term partner for both families and businesses.
“We built this branch to be here for a long time and to really be part of the community,” Prince said. “We’re excited about the growth here in the Hutto area.”
Experience the difference
For Sonora Bank, banking isn’t just about transactions; it’s about relationships, trust and being part of the community fabric.
“We strive every day for good customer service and to be friends and neighbors with our customers,” Prince said.
To experience hometown banking with modern solutions, visit Sonora Bank’s Hutto branch or click here to learn more.
Location: 251 Exchange Blvd., Hutto
The above story was produced by Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
