Miles Beacom - CEO of PREMIER Bankcard
Miles Beacom, CEO of PREMIER Bankcard, shares his journey on Behind the Business, Founders in the 605 with Marcus and Alexis Mahlen. From starting at Citibank in 1981 to leading PREMIER Bankcard, he has showcased his expertise as a great business and community man in South Dakota. Beginning as a mailroom supervisor, Miles rapidly advanced by taking on new roles and challenges, demonstrating South Dakota’s capability to compete nationally. In 1989, he transitioned to now First Premier Bank to start a credit card operation, leveraging his Citibank experience. Mile’s leadership focused on teamwork, communication, and employee empowerment, successfully turning around struggling operations, including a Chicago branch. Returning to Sioux Falls in 1993, he rebuilt PREMIER Bankcard, leading to its significant growth and establishing it as a top ten credit card issuer by 2020. His leadership philosophy emphasizes respect, listening, and providing tools for employee success, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and strong community involvement, underscoring his dual commitment to business excellence and community enrichment.
Listen to the full episode on Spotify.
Episode Mentions:
Episode 2: Scott Lawrence Podcast Episode
About Miles Beacom
Miles Beacom has been the Chief Executive Officer of PREMIER Bankcard since 1993. Under his leadership, the company has expanded to employ over 1,500 people in South Dakota, serving more than 4 million customers nationwide. PREMIER Bankcard is now the 14th largest issuer of Mastercard credit cards in the United States.
Miles has been a board member for several organizations, including Sanford Health International, Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, United Way, Dakota State University, Catholic Diocese Foundation, the Catholic Community Foundation for Eastern South Dakota, and the Freedom Scholarship Board.
A graduate of Dakota State University, Miles has generously contributed to the university, funding the construction of academic, research, and athletic facilities. In recognition of his contributions, the University of South Dakota named the Beacom School of Business in his honor in 2009.
