Mary Farrell
Business Development Associate
Mary is quick to tell you she is a Philly girl, fully embracing the perception that carries. Yes, she is direct; and yes, she has thick skin.
But her tough exterior hides a more vulnerable side that drives the ease with which she connects with others. The combination makes her a perfect fit for LBC’s Business Development Associate.
The LBC Crew looks to Mary not only to develop processes but ensure everyone adheres to them. By taking on these responsibilities, she increases cohesion and efficiency across the firm – essential for LBC’s fast-paced growth.
Among the many processes Mary oversees is the development of new business, from responding to initial queries to onboarding new clients. She also works closely with Managing Principal Laura Bishop on invoicing, representing LBC in the community, and coordinating Crew meetings and special events, among many other tasks.
Mary increases efficiency and cohesion…
Mary is new to working in communications, but she entered the industry with plenty of transferrable skills and experiences. Before joining the firm, she was head of retail banking at a South Jersey-based bank. She oversaw eight branches, which required multi-tasking and broad knowledge of business operations. She hired and mentored staff and even developed a training program. She problem-solved to address understaffing by designating a “float staff.” She closely monitored federal regulations and local banking rules and made internal adjustments to adhere to changes. And Mary created many policies and procedures to add structure to a large organization.
Mary’s dedication to maintaining a strong business foundation is a perfect match for LBC, which now includes more than 60 education, nonprofit and corporate clients.
Even before Mary joined LBC, she crossed paths with Laura at Cape May County events. Both currently serve on the Cape May County Chamber Education Foundation, Laura as president and Mary as treasurer. They share a mutual respect for one another’s work ethic and commitment to giving back.
Mary moved to Cape May County when her father retired from the Philadelphia Police Force. In addition to her chamber involvement, she aimed to make a difference in her second home through her teaching. While she was building her career in banking, she also revisited her love for literature and writing – her college major – as an adjunct professor of English at Atlantic Cape Community College.
For 17 years, she taught remedial classes, intent on helping those without strong starts find their voices and uncover their possibilities. She also learned something from teaching that she continues to apply to her career with LBC: We have much to learn from one another, so we must remain open and in pursuit of knowledge and new perspectives.
Affiliations & Education
Mary earned a bachelor’s degree in literature from Richard Stockton College and later returned to earn a second bachelor’s degree in secondary education.
She currently serves as president of the Middle Township Chamber of Commerce and treasurer of the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation. She also serves on numerous committees for the Cape May County Chamber and, when she has free time, volunteers in Wildwood at the food bank.
Outside of Office
Mary is a self-proclaimed “collector of hobbies.” She dives into something new, whether it’s knitting or painting, with full commitment. She purchases all the supplies, dedicates her time to learning and developing her skills, and then she moves on to something new.
One thing she has stuck with is her daily walks. She soaks up the beautiful Cape May County scenery and tries to appreciate something new in nature each day. Mary also says much of her energy – and savings– goes toward her nieces and nephews, with whom she can never spend enough time.