Rene Johnson
Senior Vice President-Agricultural Relationship Manager
2 East Main Street, Evansville
RJohnson@lakeridge.bank
(608) 424-2318
Q: What is your role at the bank?
Rene: As Senior Vice President and Agricultural/Business Relationship Manager at the bank, I primarily work with farmers, both as a lender and a trusted advisor. My role involves identifying opportunities to support their businesses and personal financial goals. Since many of our clients live and work on the farm, much of my work is done directly with business owners—often spanning multiple generations within the same family. I meet them where they are: at the kitchen table, on a truck tailgate, out in the field, or even in the barn. I’m fortunate to be out “in the field” across Southern Wisconsin, doing business face-to-face with the farm families we serve.
Q: Do you have a philosophy of life? Why is it important to you?
Rene: My kids—and probably my closest co-workers—would say I have a lot of life philosophies, but one I often repeat is: “Follow up and follow through.” I firmly believe people want to feel heard. That might mean revisiting a conversation or idea from a few days—or even a few months—ago. Taking the time to follow up and then following through on how you can support someone’s goals, or simply showing genuine interest in what they’re doing, is how relationships are built. And strong relationships are the foundation of success—not just in business, but in life as a friend, co-worker, and member of the community.
Q: How did you get into banking as a career?
Rene: I got into banking through a relationship I built as a 4-H exhibitor with a community banker who supported youth at our County Fair. He remembered me, and when a job opened up at his bank, he called and asked if I’d ever considered a career in banking. Coincidentally, I spoke with him on the same day I was due to have my first child! After my maternity leave, I decided to give it a try. The bank offered flexibility with my work schedule—which was especially appealing as a new mother—and brought me on as a junior lender. From there, my career began to grow. That community banker became not only my mentor but also a lifelong friend. I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today without his patience, encouragement, and guidance.
Q: What is something you really enjoy about your work?
Rene: I really enjoy the people I work with. My co-workers are fantastic—we all share a deep passion for the agriculture industry and a commitment to taking care of our customers. I’m also incredibly grateful for the customers I serve. It’s exciting to be part of so many unique businesses and family farms. While there are certainly challenges—such as navigating family dynamics or production issues—the work is deeply rewarding. I get to see the impact of what I do every day, whether it’s new buildings going up, corn being harvested and trucked past my office window, or a customer’s child showing an animal at the county fair. Many of the businesses and events I’m involved in feel like full-circle moments. I’ve worked with three generations on the same farm and have helped with farm transitions and long-term planning. For some, that means expanding their operation; for others, it means stepping away and selling the farm to a neighbor. Either way, it’s fulfilling to help my clients reach their goals and see their legacy carried forward.
