Suzanna Holness - Rudolph Brown/Chief Photographer

If banking is a religion, Suzanna Holness is a devout follower.

She has always liked banking, even from her days at the University of the West Indies (UWI), from which she has a first degree in economics.

Now, she's vice-president of operations at Scotia DBG Investments and to say she is enthusiastic about her job would be an understatement.

"It's exciting. I look forward to coming to work. I ask myself, 'what new can I do today'." she said.

Her relationship with Scotiabank started when she worked as a teller there. After graduating from UWI, she had another stint as a teller before Citizens' Bank acquired her services. After 10 years there, it was time for a new challenge and FINSAC provided it. Capital and Credit Merchant Bank was her next stop before returning to Scotia.

Gaining experience

All the while, she was gaining experience in the operations side of the business. She signed up with Scotia in January 2008 after DB&G had been acquired, so she's been there practically from the genesis.

"I think we are a force to be reckoned with. Scotia itself is financially strong and I think there are lots of opportunities for our company. We have the people and we're all for it. We are really pushing. We are very positive and know what we are about," she said. Long hours are not uncommon, but she makes it a priority to maximise her free time with her two sons and husband. She is a lover of art and enjoys a good book.