MEET
JALESSA BARNES

Jalessa Barnes brings over 18 years of experience in the banking industry and currently serves as a Business Development Officer at Blue Foundry Bank. In this role, she partners exclusively with businesses, focusing on strategic growth initiatives, relationship development, and delivering tailored financial solutions that support long-term success. Jalessa joined Blue Foundry Bank in 2023 as a Business Acquisition Manager, where she played a pivotal role in driving branch performance through sales leadership, operational excellence, and a strong commitment to client experience. Most notably, she successfully opened and led a De novo location in Dunellen, achieving strong growth and establishing a meaningful presence within the local business community. Prior to joining Blue Foundry Bank, Jalessa spent 10 years with Valley Bank and 5 years with Kearny Bank as a Branch Manager, where she built a strong foundation in leadership, team development, and relationship-based banking. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her ability to cultivate trust, develop high-performing teams, and create lasting partnerships with clients and internal stakeholders. Jalessa is deeply aligned with Blue Foundry Bank’s commitment to flexibility, innovation, and continuous improvement—values that mirror her own approach to leadership and business development. She is an active member of the Dunellen/Green Brook Rotary Club and is also involved with Downtown Dunellen Management, where she supports initiatives that strengthen and promote the local business community. Outside of the office, Jalessa brings the same creativity, energy, and attention to detail to curating memorable experiences—celebrating milestones, bringing visions to life through event design, and embracing new chapters with her husband, whom she married in 2025, and her family. That passion for connection and execution is reflected in every professional relationship she builds.