Patricia Weems
Principal Operational Risk Spec - Retail Risk Mgmt
Capital One
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
My education was messed up from moving often as a child so I redid some classes, then went to college.
College gave me a place to work to overcome autistic tendencies and learn social interaction skills.
Sometimes positive things can be a disruptor in life, it was in mine and contributed to my divorce.
Moved to Washington DC, got my first banking job and found I enjoyed the industry.
Moved to Capital One, a company that invests in its people. I began advancing from within.
Found I loved the Operations side of the business, esp Risk & Process while working in Small Business.
While pursuing certifications in SixSigma, made the connection that Risk Mgmt would fit my interests.
Risk Management has proven to be my natural 'home'. It's the best of all of the worlds that I enjoy.
Education
High School
Associate's Degree
Baker College of Flint
Baker College of Flint
Career
Principal Operational Risk Spec - Retail Risk Mgmt
I protect customers and the business by helping the business manage regulatory risk.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Business
Education
Working with Others
Day to Day
During my work day I'll meet with business partners in Retail Bank. We'll review how well we monitor process work flows that have regulatory, financial, or direct customer impact. My team will also take a look at whether the business is clear on where they have key operational controls for ensuring we're engaging and impacting the customer as intended; meeting not only the letter of regulatory laws, but also the spirit. A great day is when the partnership self-identifies how to improve together.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
Find a place to start - anywhere; part time, volunteer hours. Get an internship, volunteer with a non - profit or charity. Businesses have a huge need for consultants who can help them navigate the risks that confront their business. You need experience. Interview Risk Managers - ask your professors for introductions or make your own. Find out what they VALUE in associates. What is it they need. A career is all about how you can add value. Know yourself. Read "The Art of Choosing" by Sheena Iyeng.
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Family:
"You're a woman and there are only a few jobs that women should have. You can be a secretary, a nurse, or a teacher but that's it. If you do the right thing you'll get married, have kids, and stay at home."
Challenges I Overcame
Financial
Learning Issues
