What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
The most challenging aspect of my job is keeping up with ongoing change. Regulations change all the time, and securities and technology seem to change faster and faster. The most rewarding part of my job is spending time with such great co-workers, clients, and shareholders. These people are what matters and that is really why I do this job. We truly have a fantastic staff here!
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
I really admire Pat Lipton, who worked for the State of Wisconsin Investment Board as its executive director until retiring. Pat has such broad knowledge and is one of the brightest people I know. At the same time she is also so down to earth. Historically, our industry has been very male dominant, yet Pat has been very successful in it. She is a lifelong learner and I admire that about her. She’s always very curious and I like that a lot, too.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
The success of the Thompson IM funds and having a national product line. Thompson Investment Management is very team-oriented and it’s a culture that, if it’s a good fit for you, you’ll be here a long time. I spent most of my career building this team. They work hard and like each other. The relationships are genuine and not an act.
Thinking back on your career, what advise would you give to your 21-year old self?
Change can be scary. If you embrace it, it’s easier to navigate. Change can also create a lot of anxiety but I would encourage those just starting out in business — any business — to grab ahold of it and run with it. It’s really important at times to be a little fearful and uncomfortable.
(Continued)
What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
I love Madison. There’s such diversity and from the Overture Center to the parks to the university, there’s just so much to do. I spend a lot of my free time at our beautiful parks. Some of my favorites are Pope Farm and Military Ridge, where I like to ride my bike. We enjoy downtown Madison, as well. We are really fortunate to have terrific restaurants and great, local events.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
Running! We do a couple of 5k runs each year, as well as the annual Crazy Legs run, which we’ve done for the past three years. When my sister became ill I started running with a friend, primarily to clear my head. We run all year round, which I actually enjoy as long as I’m dressed for the weather. I’m still slower than I would like, but I run as often as possible.
What are your guilty pleasures?
While I rarely turn on the TV, I watch things on my iPad like YouTube videos, public TV, and a fair amount of movies. There are no commercials and I feel like I’m being more time efficient this way!
Click here to sign up for the free IB ezine — your twice-weekly resource for local business news, analysis, voices, and the names you need to know. If you are not already a subscriber to In Business magazine, be sure to sign up for our monthly print edition here.
