A Simple Approach to Making International Trade Work

A Conversation with Kristin Kyle-McQuesten

“Know Your Customer” isn’t only vital for compliance reasons. Throughout her career, it’s proven foundational to Kristin Kyle-McQuesten, Trade Finance Manager at Banner Bank, in building trust and confidence with clients in the vast realm of international trade.    

How did you first find your way into trade finance? Was it planned, accidental, or somewhere in between?

I found my way into trade finance somewhat accidentally right after graduating from college. I studied economics and was especially interested in international economics, which became the focus of my coursework and additional certification. While interviewing for my first full-time role, I joined a Japanese bank in Seattle and was introduced to something I had never heard of before—letters of credit. I was handed the UCP500 and told to read it, and I remember how challenging it was to make sense of it at first. 

I was fortunate to meet a mentor, Tim Rasmussen, in that first role who had the patience to teach me and that experience set the foundation for what has become a lifelong career.

What made you stay — and what keeps you motivated or engaged over time?

I’ve always been drawn to the global aspect of the work. I enjoy travel, learning about different cultures, and seeing how all the pieces come together in international trade and transactions. That said, what has truly kept me engaged over the years are the colleagues I’ve had the pleasure of working with, many of whom I now consider close friends.

What part of your work still energizes or inspires you?

Working with clients to help them run their businesses, feel confident in their payment options, and know they are personally important to me continues to energize me, even after thirty years in the industry. I enjoy helping structure transactions, as well as the ongoing opportunities to teach, learn, and see everything come together.

Working with clients to help them run their businesses, feel confident in their payment options, and know they are personally important to me continues to energize me, even after thirty years in the industry.

If you could change one thing about the industry or how we work, what would it be?

It’s not so much that I would change something about the industry, but I do see something that could change and I would greatly miss it. I work at a regional bank and really value the collaborative way we operate. We form groups to advocate for regional banks, pick up the phone to consult with one another, and work together to educate our teams. As we continue to see consolidation in the industry and the regional banking space, my hope is that this spirit of collaboration continues for future generations, even as the landscape evolves.

Tell us about a specific experience — a deal, project, challenge, or case — that taught you an important lesson. What was the lesson and how did it shape your approach?

I’ve been fortunate to learn many important lessons throughout my career, so I’ll share a few highlights of both internal and external lessons.

As I’d said, Tim Rasmussen was my first mentor and became a lifelong friend. His influence led to an early lesson: enjoy the people you surround yourself with every day. Tim also taught me the importance of building a strong team, finding individuals who fit the culture, and having ambition. The product can be taught; the desire to learn it cannot.

I recently worked on a complex transaction for a new client that hit several significant roadblocks. It reinforced the importance of staying focused on the process and anticipating client questions and concerns before they arise. When clients see that you are truly invested, it builds trust and long-term relationships. As I like to say, a client doesn’t care what you know until they know how much you care.

What advice would you offer to someone just starting their career in this field today?

Look to where the industry is headed, not just where it is today. Lean into new technologies, evolving payment methods, and be well-rounded in all products. Trade finance has traditionally been slow to adopt change, but I believe that’s shifting and the pace of innovation will only accelerate. It’s an exciting time to join the field!

Also, build a strong foundation in compliance. Take every opportunity to learn and pursue relevant certifications, as this area will continue to play a critical role in the industry.

What do you do outside of work that people might be surprised to learn?

I know many in our industry love to travel, but beyond that, I had always hoped to work in a foreign office at some point in my career. When my path didn’t take me overseas, I decided to create my own adventure. A few years ago, my family and I sold almost everything we owned and spent ten months backpacking through Europe. When we returned, I was incredibly fortunate to step right back into my role with the same employer.

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