Delaware County Leader: Allan Matyger, WSFS Bank's CIO

A Journey of Leadership and Growth

Allan Matyger, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer at WSFS Bank, shared his journey with DELCO Today. His story begins in Newark, Delaware, where he grew up as the eldest of four brothers. From a young age, he learned leadership skills while managing his siblings and balancing responsibilities.

Matyger's career at WSFS Bank has spanned nearly 30 years. He started in the mailroom as an intern, then moved to the IT help desk, and eventually rose to his current position. Throughout his career, he has focused on leveraging cutting-edge technologies to support the bank’s mission of serving its clients effectively.

Early Life and Family Background

Born in Delaware, Matyger lived in Newark for most of his life. His family briefly moved to Illinois when his father, a chemical engineer, was transferred there. They returned to Delaware when he was in second grade, and his father worked at BFGoodrich across the bridge in New Jersey. Matyger's mother worked locally at WSFS Bank, and her positive experiences there influenced his decision to join the company later in life.

Growing up, Matyger had a close-knit family. As the oldest of four boys, he took on a leadership role, ensuring that everything ran smoothly. The family enjoyed spending time together, going on trips, playing outside, and exploring their neighborhood.

Sports and Lessons Learned

Sports played a significant role in Matyger's life. While he played soccer informally in the streets, he began playing it more seriously in middle school and high school. Though his brothers were better players, he found a different way to contribute by refereeing games. This experience taught him about professionalism, preparation, and fairness—lessons that would shape his future career.

Refereeing also taught him that it's impossible to please everyone, but his job was to be fair and impartial. These values stayed with him throughout his life and career.

Education and Early Career

After high school, Matyger chose to work at WSFS Bank while pursuing his education. He enrolled at the University of Delaware, where he studied computer science. Despite being accepted into other schools like Drexel, Akron, and Hofstra, he felt that the opportunity to work at WSFS while in school was too valuable to pass up.

During his time at the university, he continued working at the bank, starting as a mail courier and later moving to the IT help desk. His willingness to take on challenging hours, including evenings and weekends, helped him gain valuable experience in the IT field.

Mentorship and Professional Development

Matyger's career took a significant turn when he became a software development intern with Cash Connect, a division of WSFS Bank. His mentor, Tom Stevenson, who was the former Chief Information Officer, saw potential in him and offered him a full-time position after graduation.

Under Stevenson's guidance, Matyger learned quickly and took every opportunity to grow. He credits Stevenson for investing in his development and trusting him to learn new skills. This mentorship shaped his approach to leadership and professional growth.

Leadership and Giving Back

Now in a leadership position, Matyger has been able to give opportunities to others. He has been involved in WSFS Bank’s internship program, particularly at Cash Connect, where they hired several interns from the University of Delaware. Many of these interns have since become full-time associates, continuing the cycle of mentorship and growth.

Matyger also credits Lisa Brubaker, the former CIO and now Chief Human Resources Officer, for her support and guidance. Her leadership and commitment to service have inspired him throughout his career.

Embracing New Challenges

Earlier this year, Matyger stepped into a new role as Chief Information Officer. While he didn’t have a specific plan for this position, he embraced the challenge and finds joy in his work. He enjoys being part of a team that is constantly innovating and improving.

Technology plays a crucial role in the bank’s strategy, and Matyger is focused on initiatives such as operational excellence and digital transformation. He is also exploring how artificial intelligence can be leveraged to enhance the client experience.

Balancing Work and Family Life

Outside of work, Matyger prioritizes time with his wife, son, and daughter. His son was a four-sport athlete in high school, and the family followed his games closely. His daughter participates in travel dance, and the family supports her endeavors.

They are also season ticket holders for the Philadelphia Union, a tradition that brings the family together. Matyger recently had the chance to kick out the first ball at a game, an experience that made his children especially excited.

Final Thoughts and Advice

When asked about the best advice he has ever received, Matyger emphasized the importance of living by one’s values. This advice came from a close friend before he got married and was reinforced by mentors like Tom Stevenson. It has remained a guiding principle in his personal and professional life.

For Matyger, the mission of WSFS Bank—“We Stand For Service”—resonates deeply. He believes in the power of relationships over transactions and is committed to continuous learning and growth. His journey reflects a dedication to service, leadership, and the value of hard work.