What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
I believe the most rewarding part of my job is being a part of a financial planning team that specializes in changing lives and helping clients create and preserve wealth. We help clients live out their dreams by tackling tough wealth management topics and making bold decisions. This is what also makes the job challenging. Our clients often have complex financial situations and our responsibility is to provide the expertise to implement the best solutions for them. I’m leading a team of 29 very bright financial professionals with advanced degrees and certifications, and exceptional skill sets.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
There are too many people to just name one. I generally find myself in sheer amazement of the business owners we work with at BMO Wealth Management. These are individuals who generally came from humble beginnings, worked extremely hard, focused in on a niche segment, and over time their dreams became very successful businesses. Learning about them and their businesses never gets old.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
In addition to taking on my new role as vice president and managing director of BMO Wealth Management for southwest Wisconsin, I was named 40 Under 40 by the Milwaukee Business Journal and selected as one of the top performers within my company for my team’s performance in 2016. This last year was special.
Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
I would tell myself to be patient. There is a feeling among many young people that if you’re not taking on a new role or title you’re not successful. It takes time to master certain skills and thankfully I’ve always had great mentors to coach me on this topic. I would also tell myself to find ways to learn or expose myself to a new skill-set. I completed a three-year banking school program last summer that really challenged me. I’m a better banker and leader because I embraced this challenge.
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What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
The best part about working in Dane County is the pride that people have in this community. I was working with BMO Wealth Management in the Milwaukee area until I was promoted and moved to our headquarters in Madison in February. It hasn’t taken me long to uncover that this city and its residents are special. I’m excited to form new relationships and get involved in Madison.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I was a bartender during and after college. I love meeting new people and learning about them. I also enjoy cooking and entertaining. There is a running joke among my friends that I will own a diner in retirement. Anything is possible!
What are your guilty pleasures?
Over the last four years I’ve become a bit of a travel junkie. I’m usually looking for a recommendation for a new destination to explore. As a child I didn’t travel much. I took my first flight after college when I could afford to pay for it myself. Today I look forward to traveling with my family and friends. I have yet to meet an oceanfront that I didn’t get along with extremely well!
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