Interview with Fran DeMaris Award Winner Katrina Martin - Part 1

A Journey from Hospitality to Trust and Estate Planning

Katrina Martin’s career began in an industry far removed from the world of trusts and estates—hospitality. Growing up in Tampa, Florida, Katrina had always been drawn to serving others, a passion that led her to pursue a degree in marketing and hospitality at the University of Central Florida, where she graduated magna cum laude. However, despite her academic achievements and a clear passion for hospitality, Katrina found herself at a crossroads after graduation, unsure of her defined career path.

“I knew that I had a passion for hospitality,” Katrina reflects, “but what I really came to find is that what I loved at the root of hospitality is just client service, taking care of people, being able to add value in their lives.”

This realization became the foundation of her career, guiding her from hospitality into the banking sector. In banking, Katrina found an environment where her skills in client service could flourish. Starting as a personal banker, she quickly advanced to become a banking center manager in Nashville. For six years, Katrina honed her expertise in client relations, developing a deep understanding of the financial needs and goals of her clients.

Yet, even as she thrived in banking, Katrina felt there was more she could offer. The transition from hospitality to banking had been a smooth one, but it wasn’t until a former colleague introduced her to the trust industry that she found her true calling. The move to Cumberland Trust came at a pivotal moment during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020—a time of uncertainty and challenge for many professionals.

Taking a leap of faith, Katrina entered the trust industry, where she discovered that her passion for client service aligned perfectly with the responsibilities of a Trust Officer. “At its core, it’s all about providing great service to clients,” Katrina explains. Her role at Cumberland Trust, where she currently serves as an AVP and Trust Officer, allows her to engage in meaningful work every day, helping clients navigate complex financial landscapes with care and precision.

For Katrina, the transition from hospitality to trust services was not just a change in industry; it was a fulfillment of her desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. By focusing on client service, she has seamlessly integrated the skills she developed in hospitality and banking into her role in trust services, illustrating the power of a client-centered approach in any industry.