Years in the pawn industry: 10
How I got my start in the industry: My family has been running pawn stores for almost 35 years. My grandfather opened the first one in Denham Springs, LA, in 1984; my dad opened a second one four years later in Hammond, LA. Since then, we have opened three others in the surrounding areas. I started working in the business at 18, and after college, I started managing and running the stores.
Chaise Rainey
My top three goals for 2018 are:
Continue to grow our loan balances
Open a new location
Build a positive look for pawn stores in my community
The best advice I have ever received: A goal without a plan is just a dream.
Greatest accomplishments in my pawn career so far: Graduating college and becoming district manager of all locations
Industry certifications held: In the process of getting GIA certified, bachelor’s degree in business
My media mix:
Musical artists – Anything from new rock to country. I also love to listen to different business podcasts.
TV shows – Game of Thrones, Westworld, Parks and Rec, Seinfeld
My role models are: My father and both my grandfathers. My father has shown me how far honesty and trust can get you in life and business. Both my grandfathers had very little growing up but rose to succeed and become successful in life. They showed me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
NPA members would be surprised to learn that I: Know how to do bench jewelry work and minor gunsmithing.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy: Spending time in the outdoors. I love to fish, hunt, and kayak.
If I wasn’t a pawnbroker, I’d be: A software developer.
