Holm – Bank of Good Plans is Now 5 in Latvia!

Holm Bank Latvia celebrates its 5th anniversary in October. Holm has its roots in Estonia, where it received a banking licence in 2019. In Latvia, Holm operates as a credit provider, closely following the same strict rules and regulations that apply to banks. “I believe we are among the most responsible non-bank credit providers in the Latvian market, and that says a lot about our culture and discipline,” says Rolands Bērziņš, Latvian Business Project Manager.

Growth. People. Time.

These are the natural values of Holm. Growth never stops, from a small credit provider in the seaside town of Haapsalu, to a bank in Estonia offering 24/7 online services, and then to expansion in Latvia with a growing range of products. These are just milestones; the real story is about people, development, and progress – mistakes too, but always with learning that enables smarter choices next time. Holm has built a strong foundation for growth based on ambition, respect and support among colleagues and towards clients, always aiming for customer-friendly solutions and efficient internal tools and processes.

Estonian Roots

“For me, and for people around me, Estonia stands for trust and security. I’m not even sure where that feeling comes from, but it’s there. Holm’s Estonian origin naturally gives the company legitimacy and credibility,” reflects Artūrs Rubins, Head of Litigation and Debt Management.

Help Desk Specialist Diāna Vaickus feels the company has developed especially well thanks to cooperation with Estonia. Her colleague Alona Jursa, Office Manager, agrees, saying that working with colleagues from a northern neighbour creates the sense of belonging to a larger company, which brings security and confidence in long-term growth. Tamāra Balacka, Help Desk Specialist, adds: “Cooperation with Estonian teams makes it easier to exchange experiences. The positive and negative aspects of processes appear more quickly, which helps us make better decisions and makes my work clearer.”

There are also other benefits. Sanata Znotinaite, Collection Senior Specialist, says: “I am glad Holm originates from Estonia. It opens a different horizon for Latvians who live there – I can work for Latvia and use the Latvian language while living in Estonia.” Her colleagues Olga Ozola and Rolands Bērziņš share the same sentiment. “I cherish the opportunity to work in my mother tongue, Latvian,” says Olga, a Debt Collection Specialist based in Tallinn.

Working Culture and Attitude

“I think it is very important to realise that we are a team where people understand each other well, whether it is two Latvians or a Latvian with an Estonian, whether it’s a work matter or a Friday evening joke,” smiles Jūlija Bondere, Help Desk Manager. “At Holm, a friendly, supportive and positive attitude prevails, there is a warm and open atmosphere here,” says Alona Jursa, who joined the company only a few months ago and already feels inspired by her colleagues.

Līna Galanova, Accountant, explains: “I might not be the employee with the longest history here, but it’s enough to understand that Holm Bank Latvia’s main value is people. Interaction between employees is built on mutual respect and support. Every contribution is valued at all levels, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for new employees and a pleasant everyday for experienced ones. It’s also good to know that the company cares about development and well-being of its people.”

Her colleague Ilva Lūzere, Senior Help Desk Specialist, sums it up: “We have a dynamic, cooperative, united team.”

Trust

“I like building things from scratch and seeing them work. Holm has given me the freedom to create a full debt-recovery setup from the ground up and I appreciate the opportunity and trust,” says Artūrs Rubins. “I enjoy working without micromanagement – to be given a goal, responsibility and trust to reach those goals,” adds Sanata Znotinaite. “Independence and trust motivate me. It is rewarding to feel I can make a difference, to be part of the team that develops processes, introduces new products, and supports and motivates colleagues,” says Ilva Lūzere.

Bank of Good Plans

A slogan carries the soul and identity of a company: it reflects not only what we do, but also the deeper meaning of how and why we do it. “Our slogan means we help people realise their plans, not just hand out loans. We’re a partner, not a payday lender,” explains Artūrs. “It makes me think about using a loan to improve one’s financial situation, or even to develop a business idea,” says Rolands. “There is an opportunity to turn plans into life,” adds Sanata. “To me our slogan means that we are a stable company providing responsible financing for thoroughly considered goals,” says Jūlija.

Value for Clients

Jūlija stresses that her team always takes an individual and responsible approach when working with clients, whether in decisions, correspondence or other matters. “We are always honest and try to find the best solutions to support our clients,” adds Diāna.

Olga believes open communication and willingness to help are the key to earning clients’ trust. Ilva notes that while clients often expect quick solutions, this never comes at the expense of responsibility. “Honesty and clarity. No hidden catches, people know exactly what they’re signing up for,” summarises Artūrs.

Clients confirm this in their feedback: “Thanks to your employee for a clear and detailed conversation over the phone. It always feels safer to talk everything through with a person.” Another, rating their first fully electronic experience 10/10, wrote: “It saves a lot of time. Quite good.”

Facing Holm

When asked to describe Holm, colleagues repeatedly use the same words: responsibility, supportiveness, joy of working. Others call it practical, smart, humane, responsible, modern, inspiring, dynamic, calm, stable, bold and creative, but always friendly.

Happy Birthday, Holm Bank Latvia!

To mark the anniversary and great cooperation, Tamāra Balacka shared words that capture the spirit of the whole team.

“Dear colleagues, in all storms, bend but do not break; do not be afraid to make mistakes, stumble, get back up, and move forward. Believe in yourself.”

“Our valued clients, feel confident in using what Holm Bank offers. We provide responsible advice and always look for the best solutions for you.”

From Estonia, warm greetings are sent to the Latvian team: we are happy to have you with us as part of one successful international family. Happy birthday, Holm Bank Latvia!