Executive Vice President
World Service Americas American Express Company
Headquarters: New York City
Web Site: www.americanexpress.com
Primary Business: Financial services & insurance/banking/credit services.
Employees: 59,000 employees world wide
What is your definition of leadership? A leader is someone who makes a positive impact on people’s lives – both professionally and personally. A leader also creates followership. This happens when people achieve more under your leadership than they ever thought they would.
What is your most rewarding career accomplishment? My career accomplishments are on going. For example, each time my team wins or achieves a goal – that’s an accomplishment. Each time my team members progress professionally or personally – that’s an accomplishment. Each time I hear about my team members’ personal successes – that’s an accomplishment.
What are the personal and/or professional sacrifices to being a leader? One of the sacrifices a leader will make is that of time. So always strive to have a balance between your personal and your professional life. Be aware of the decisions you’re making and how those decisions will impact where you’re spending your time. Be clear at all times about your own principles and priorities. This helps as you attempt to maintain a balanced personal and professional life.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering with an MBA from the Instituto Empresa in Madrid and an ABS from Harvard
What I’m Reading: Right from the Start, by Dan Ciampa; Garoé, by Alberto Vazquez-Figueroa
My Philosophy: To be true to my principles which are: family first; do the right thing; and have a positive impact on other people’s lives.
Interests: My interests are around family activities. I also enjoy horseback riding, skiing and reading.
