Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Bridgeport for 2024. As the most populous city in Connecticut, Bridgeport is a vibrant hub of activity and growth. Known as the "Park City" for its expansive 1,300 acres of public parks, Bridgeport offers more than just natural beauty. With a steadily diversifying economy, the city has become a magnet for industries such as healthcare, business services, finance, retail, and restaurants, attracting top professionals who are driving the city’s continued success.
This year, we honor the accomplishments of Colleen Tycz, Senior Vice President and Head of Retirement and Insurance Strategic Accounts and Insurance Distribution at Franklin Templeton, the industry’s sixth-largest independent asset. Tycz leads the team responsible for managing home office relationships and insurance field sales for the firm’s $152 billion division.
We also honor Nia Rhodes, Global Director of Sustainability Engagement Initiatives at Nike. Rhodes is leading Nike's efforts for a greener tomorrow by crafting a synergy between the company's planet and people strategy and developing programs that drive substantial environmental change.
Lastly, we congratulate Shelley Xia. As the Head of Financial and Strategic Alignment, she is leading HCB Transformation Solutions at Aetna, a CVS Health Company and one of the nation's leading diversified healthcare benefits providers.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Bridgeport for 2024.
1. Tatyana Costa
Head of US Payments, UBS
Tatyana Costa is the Head of US Payments of UBS, a global firm providing financial services in over 50 countries. Costa is a results-oriented, decisive leader with proven problem-solving capabilities. She has extensive experience in leading diverse teams, global operations, compliance and regulations, and enhancing customer experience.
In her current position at UBS, Costa manages two teams of specialists responsible for payment processes, including payment repairs and investigations. She handles all payment-related escalations. Costa coordinates responses to regulators and auditors regarding payment controls, including the Federal Reserve Bank’s cybersecurity attestation. She drives process streamlining and automation initiatives across payment operations, utilizing Alteryx automation software. She also chairs the monthly Stamford Branch Operations Risk Forum.
Before joining UBS, Costa was a director of payments and operations at Municipal Credit Union. Before that, she was a vice president of branch administration at UNFCU. Earlier in her career, she worked with People's United Bank as a branch manager. Costa graduated from the University of Connecticut with an undergraduate degree in international finance.
2. Michelle Strezoski
Executive Director, Head of Business Management, WM US International Division, UBS
Michelle Strezoski began her professional career 27 years ago. Today, she is the Executive Director and Head of Business Management in the WM US International Division of UBS, a global firm providing financial services in over 50 countries.
Strezoski is a versatile, results-oriented leader with broad international experience in the financial services and management consulting industry. She is intellectually curious and highly motivated by aligning colleagues to deliver pragmatic, client-centric solutions to complex problems. She is a skilled communicator and influencer who enjoys challenging the status quo. She is passionate about people development, fostering cross-collaboration opportunities, and managing through ambiguity.
Strezoski started her career in 1997 as a financial controller at McKinsey & Company. She graduated from Charles Sturt University with an undergraduate degree in accountancy.
3. Jacqueline Novotny
Senior VP, CBRE
Jacqueline Novotny is a Senior Vice President for CBRE in the firm’s Westchester/Fairfield office. In this role, Novotny leverages the Global Corporate Service platform and currently oversees transaction services and/or portfolio management for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
In addition to her account leadership within the Global Corporate Service platform, Novotny provides tenant and owner representation, consulting, and investment sales throughout the northern suburbs of New York City and the State of Connecticut. She can leverage CBRE’s global platform to provide seamless local, regional, national, and global real estate solutions to her clients. Novotny began her career in real estate as a salesperson with Sheldon Good & Company, one of the leading real estate auctioneers in the United States. While there, she participated in the sale of over $150 million of real estate across all asset types and managed the company’s first endeavor into Puerto Rico.
Novotny graduated from The George Washington University School of Business with an undergraduate degree in international business and marketing.
4. Wendy Herrick
Head of Customer Operations, North America, Unilever
Wendy Herrick is the Head of Customer Operations, North America of Unilever. Unilever's portfolio ranges from nutritionally balanced foods to indulgent ice creams, affordable soaps, luxurious shampoos, and everyday household care products. They produce world-leading brands, including Lipton, Knorr, Dove, Axe, Hellmann’s, and Omo, alongside trusted local names and innovative-forward thinking brands like Ben & Jerry’s, The Dollar Shave Club, and Dermalogica.
Herrick has over 25 years in Unilever and has held leadership roles across finance and supply chain. She started her career with Unilever in Bristol, England, and has worked in numerous countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. In 2015, Herrick was appointed to the position of VP of the supply chain in the US, where she was responsible for end-to-end supply chain integration, supply chain digital strategy, and in-market business results.
Herrick is a member of various groups and organizations, including Achieving Women’s Excellence in SC Operations and Management and Education (AWESOME). She is an executive sponsor of the Veteran’s Business Resource Group and chairwoman at the Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) in Connecticut.
5. Susan Valentine
National Director of Strategy, Client Development, National Accounts, UnitedHealthcare
Susan Valentine is the National Director of Strategy, Client Development, National Accounts of UnitedHealthcare, a healthcare and well-being company with a mission to help people live healthier lives and help make the health system work better for everyone.
Valentine has 44 years of experience. She is a critical and creative thinker who loves developing strategies and collaborating to achieve goals. She draws on her broad knowledge and relationship base to accomplish innovation. Valentine develops and implements sales and marketing strategies for UnitedHealthcare's National Accounts Client Development operation. She also creates customized active and retiree health plan strategies for Fortune 500 companies, addressing corporate imperatives and incorporating consumer engagement strategies. She has strong skills in setting business strategy, marketing campaign design, creative development, and multicultural marketing.
Valentine graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with an undergraduate degree in marketing and art.
6. Jennifer Cronin
VP, Global Development Support, Marriott International
Jennifer Cronin is the Vice President of Global Development Support at Marriott International. She first joined the company in 2016 as vice president, of global development marketing. Marriott International, Inc. is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,700 properties under 31 leading brands spanning 138 countries and territories.
Cronin is a senior business leader with a proven track record of developing innovative strategies and programming that deliver results. She is passionate about leading high-performing cross-functional, cross-geographic teams that are committed to enhancing the company’s market position and achieving business goals. Her areas of focus include marketing, communications, project management, strategy, and data analytics. She has experience working with Fortune 500 companies and agencies across various sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, food and beverage, and consumer goods.
Previously, Cronin was a vice president of global development marketing at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. She graduated from The George Washington University.
7. Anna Hoti
Managing Director, State & Local Tax, PwC
Anna Hoti is the Managing Director of State and Local Tax at PwC. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) is a network of professional services firms that provides audit, accounting, financial, tax due diligence, valuation, human resources, and forensic services to its clients.
Hoti has nearly three decades of professional experience. She has a diverse skill set in the industry, including expertise in Big 4, mergers and acquisitions, tax research, and due diligence. Her proficiency extends to corporate tax, general tax, accounting, and transfer pricing. Plus, she has strong capabilities in tax law, auditing, internal controls, tax accounting, tax advisory, and income tax.
Hoti graduated from the Albany Law School with a JD and from New York University School of Law with a Master of Laws.
8. Patricia Lavalle
Executive Director, Ernst & Young LLP
Patricia Lavalle is the Executive Director of Ernst & Young LLP (EY). Enabled by data and technology, diverse EY teams in over 150 countries provide trust through assurance and help clients grow, transform, and operate.
Lavalle began her professional career 39 years ago. Before joining the team at Ernst & Young, she served the People's United Bank, now part of M&T Bank, as an internal auditor. She brought her talents to EY a few years later and has been there ever since.
Lavalle graduated from Mercy University with an undergraduate degree in accounting. She is a Certified Public Accountant through the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).
9. Sharon Garavel
Managing Director, Operations Executive, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Sharon Garavel is the Managing Director of Operations Executive of JPMorgan Chase & Co., one of the world's oldest, largest, and best-known financial institutions, carrying forth the innovative spirit of their heritage firms in global operations across 100 markets.
Garavel is a strategic, operationally oriented leader with a proven track record of partnering with business CEOs to drive growth, deliver world-class differentiated service levels to customers, integrate acquisitions, and achieve productivity savings. She has a keen ability to translate operational execution into tangible business and financial benefits through a combination of leadership skills and broad experiences, including roles in finance, profit and loss management, and change management. She possesses a winning combination of strategic vision for change and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally to drive execution.
Before joining JPMorgan Chase & Co., Garavel was a VP of enterprise initiatives at GE Capital, where her contributions include leading acquisition integration efforts, totaling $100 billion, introducing LEAN Six Sigma tools to the quality program, and implementing program governance to meet the heightened expectations of a systemically important financial institution (SIFI). Her work on a $2 billion program involving 8,000 full-time employees (FTE) was a key enabler in GE receiving its first-ever SIFI de-designation. Additionally, she co-led the GE Women's Network and played a significant leadership role in driving transformation initiatives. Earlier in her career, she worked with PwC as an audit supervisor. Garavel graduated from Bryant University with an undergraduate degree in accounting and finance.
10. Catherine Colucci
Managing Director, KPMG
Catherine Colucci began her professional career 14 years ago. Today, she is the Managing Director of KPMG, a global network of professional firms providing audit, tax, and advisory services.
Colucci accepted her first role at KPMG in 2010 as a tax senior manager in financial services. She stayed in this role for 11 years before she was promoted to her current position in October 2021. Throughout her career, she has developed strong expertise in internal controls and tax accounting. certification. Her experience includes preparing SEC filings and conducting corporate tax research.
Colucci graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Business with a Master’s degree in Accounting and from the University of Connecticut with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
11. Fara Hojjat
VP, Commercial Credit Underwriter, Bank of America
Fara Hojjat is the Vice President of Commercial Credit Underwriter of Bank of America, one of the world's largest financial institutions, serving individuals, small- and middle-market businesses, and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management, and other financial and risk management products and services.
Hojjat has 14 years of professional experience. Before joining Bank of America, Hojjat was a sales and service manager at People's United Bank. Before that, she was a senior universal banker at Webster Bank. Earlier in her career, she worked with Liverpool Pram Company Limited as a business analyst, where she formulated policies, managed daily operations, and planned the use of materials and human resources
Hojjat graduated from the University of Liverpool with a Masters in management. She has an Advanced Certificate in Graphic Design with a Concentration in Web Design from Sessions College and a certificate in Professional Photography from the New York Institute of Photography.
12. Donna Donaldson
VP, Credit Lending Governance Productivity Strategist, Citi
Donna Donaldson is the Vice President of Credit Lending Governance Productivity Strategist at Citi. She is a leader with expertise in all facets of export credit, financial management, financial analysis, and product management within both high-profile corporations and non-profit organizations. She serves as a board member for a non-profit organization in Stamford, Connecticut. She is highly skilled in collaborating with all organizational members and clients to achieve business and financial objectives. She has proven to be instrumental in streamlining and improving processes, enhancing productivity, and implementing powerful solutions.
At Citi, Donaldson provides regional oversight for various lending processes. She manages the tracking of Classified Credit Reviews to ensure timely completion, and she analyzes and manages attestation and evidence for aspects of risk monitoring. Additionally, Donaldson serves as the regional manager for processes and controls related to the management controls assessment for credit lending management. She coordinates business and compliance requirements associated with commercial lending, including remediation related to collateral and other defined attributes needed to ensure proper alignment with risk policies.
Previously, Donaldson was a product manager at Citibank. She earned a Master’s degree in Christian Studies from Liberty University and an undergraduate degree in social science with a concentration in economics from New York University.
13. Lydia Gregor
VP, Wells Fargo
Lydia Gregor began her professional career 21 years ago. Today, she is a Vice President at Wells Fargo, a diversified, community-based financial services company with approximately $1.9 trillion in assets.
Gregor has spent the majority of her career serving the team and customers of Wells Fargo. She has expertise in letters of credit, trade finance, asset-based lending, and credit analysis. Her skills also include relationship management, international business, capital markets, and commercial lending. Additionally, Gregor is proficient in financial structuring, investment banking, commercial banking, and structured finance. She has a strong background in banking, private equity, portfolio management, and international trade.
Gregor graduated from Mount Holyoke College with an undergraduate degree in Russian area studies.
14. Michelle Witschi
VP & General Manager, Advanced Customer Services, US Enterprise, Oracle
Michelle Witschi is the VP and General Manager of Advanced Customer Services for the US Enterprise at Oracle, a cloud technology company that provides organizations around the world with computing infrastructure and software to help them innovate, unlock efficiencies, and become more effective.
In this position, Witschi is responsible for leading a high-performing sales and delivery team serving over 4,000 active customers in the United States, managing a contract base exceeding $135 million for all legacy and acquired products and services. She also oversees profit and loss financials in the US Enterprise Region, including sales and revenue forecasting, expense control, margin attainment, and customer success.
Witschi is a proven executive with more than 25 years of global experience delivering results, consistently exceeding bookings, revenue, and delivery margin targets while maintaining an exemplary level of customer satisfaction. Before joining Oracle, Witschi was a senior director at Hyperion Solutions. She graduated from Fairfield University.
15. Shifee Losacco
Global Head, Reference Data, Credit Suisse
Shifee Losacco is the Global Head of Reference Data at Credit Suisse. The Credit Suisse Group AG was acquired by UBS Group AG, the world’s largest and only truly global wealth manager.
Losacco has over three decades of professional experience. Her first leadership role was as a senior sales assistant at a major financial institution. She served in this capacity for nearly 15 years. She then went to UBS, a global firm providing financial services in over 50 countries, a position she held for over six years before starting at Credit Suisse.
Early in her career, Losacco was located in San Francisco, California. She came to Connecticut in 2005 and has continued to call this area home.
16. Shelley Xia
Head of Financial & Strategic Alignment, HCB Transformation Solutions, Aetna, a CVS Health Company
Shelley Xia is the Head of Financial and Strategic Alignment of HCB Transformation Solutions at Aetna, a CVS Health Company, and one of the nation's leading diversified healthcare benefits companies, serving an estimated 39 million people with information and resources to help them make better decisions about their health.
Xia is an experienced internal consultant, specializing in digital transformation, business intelligence, data analysis, and process improvement. She is passionate about problem-solving and leveraging data-driven insights to make strategic and tactical decisions, driving projects to successful completion. She thrives in fast-paced environments and has a proven track record of managing cross-functional project teams.
Before joining Aetna, Xia was a growth and optimization manager at AMEC LLC. Earlier in her career, she worked with Waste Management as a senior data analyst. Xia graduated from Columbia University in the City of New York with a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering and from Zhejiang University with an undergraduate degree in automation in control science and engineering.
17. Xiaowei Luan
Managing Partner, AX Partners Inc.
Xiaowei Luan is the Managing Partner of AX Partners Inc. She is one of the co-founders of AX Partners, a capital markets service company dedicated to helping companies utilize asset-based finance solutions to meet their business needs.
Luan is a finance executive with over 25 years of experience in capital markets. Before funding AX Partners, she was the head of GE’s securitization practice and capital markets leader for Working Capital Solutions, where she built and managed multi-billion global capital markets platforms for various GE business units. Over her decades-long career in capital markets, Luan has developed deep domain expertise in structured finance, securitization, and working capital finance and built strong relationships with global capital markets participants and investors. In addition to her capital markets expertise, she also has strong operational experience in treasury management and business transformation.
Luan holds an MBA from NYU Stern School of Business, an MS from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a BS from Fudan University.
18. Kate Thompson
SVP, Head of ETF Distribution, Allianz Life
Kate Thompson is the SVP and Head of ETF Distribution at Allianz Life, a leading provider of annuities and life insurance and a global leader in the financial services industry with a presence in more than 70 countries and more than 150,000 employees worldwide.
Thompson is a results-driven retail distribution executive with extensive experience in strategic planning, sales automation, data analytics, and training and development. She has a proven track record of building cultures of success and leading teams through continuous change. She excels at driving strategic growth initiatives by identifying, developing, and delivering innovative solutions through distribution partners. She leverages exemplary leadership, technical expertise, and communication skills to achieve a company’s goals and vision while maintaining industry-leading standards of excellence.
Thompson started her career in 1998 as an operations liaison at PIMCO, and after multiple promotions, she rose to the level of vice president of retirement plan services. She started with Allianz Global Investors as a director and senior national account manager. She also served as a managing director and head of relationship management before accepting her current role in 2022. Thompson graduated from University College Dublin with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
19. Kathleen Conron
Senior Director, Technical Product Management, Controllership, GE Aerospace
Kathleen Kathleen Conron is the Senior Director of Technical Product Management and Controllership of GE Aerospace. She first joined the company in 2023. GE Aerospace is a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, components, and integrated systems for commercial, military, business, and general aviation aircraft.
Previously, Conron was a senior director at GE. Earlier in her career, she worked with GE Capital as a technical project manager of financial systems. She is an established, performance-driven Senior IT Director with over 20 years of experience leading large-scale, global business application implementations and defining technology strategies. She is adept at navigating complex organizational challenges and driving business transformation. She has extensive experience in the financial services industry, particularly in financial systems and treasury.
Conron earned an undergraduate degree in computer science from Boston College. She is a graduate of General Electric's Information Technology Leadership Program, Experienced Information Management Program, and Business Leadership Program, and she is Six Sigma Black Belt certified.
20. Susan Saracena
Vice President, JLL
Susan Saracena is the Vice President of JLL. She first joined the company in 2017. JLL is a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company that has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage, and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential, and retail properties.
At JLL, Saracena brings specialized expertise in the commercial real estate (CRE) architectural process, with a focus on the activities required to plan, schedule, design, build, and report on commercial and industrial construction projects both nationally and internationally. Her specialties include project planning, project management, team guidance, scheduling, budgeting, construction document review, process manual development, workspace standards development, bidding, vendor engagement, and space assessments. Previously, Saracena was a project manager of design and construction at CBRE GWS/Johnson Controls. Before that, she was a director of commercial interiors at United Systems Integrators/Johnson Controls. Earlier in her career, she worked with Esposito Design Associates as an associate.
Saracena graduated from the University of New Haven. She enjoys traveling for business and pleasure and values spending quality time with her family. She regularly volunteers at The Social Concerns Ministry of Assumption Church of Westport. Her interests also include listening to jazz, hunting for antiques, visiting art galleries, and spending time with friends.
21. Shannon Breen
Director, Team Lead Migraine Business Operations, Pfizer
Shannon Breen is the Director and team Lead Migraine Business Operations of Pfizer. She first joined the company in 2023. At Pfizer, they apply science and their global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives.
Breen is a dynamic, results-focused sales and development leader with a strong ability to strategize and execute business objectives and performance measures that positively impact the bottom line. Backed by a proven track record, she excels in driving sales, launching products, building market presence, creating strategic plans, developing business opportunities, collaborating across the organization, and fostering the professional development of high-performing teams.
Previously, Breen was a director of learning and development at Biohaven Pharmaceuticals. Before that, she was a regional director at Shire. Earlier in her career, she worked with Amylin Pharmaceuticals as a senior district manager. Breen earned an undergraduate degree in finance from Bryant University.
22. Nia Rhodes
Director, Global Sustainability Engagement Initiatives, Nike
Nia Rhodes is the Director of Global Sustainability Engagement Initiatives at Nike. NIKE, Inc., is the leading sports brand in the world with over $51B in revenue in 2024. We are tenaciously scaling game-changing innovations across carbon, waste, water and chemistry to help protect the future of sport.
As a member of the Global Sustainability team, Rhodes crafts a synergy between the company's planet and people strategy. This strategy aligns with Nike's business objectives while ensuring social and community impact. With over a year of experience at Nike, her focus has been on developing programs that drive substantial environmental change.
Previously, as Vice President of Programs at the New York League of Conservation Voters, Rhodes led a team that elevated public engagement through strategic leadership. She developed conservation forums and outreach campaigns that supported municipalities in their journey towards Climate Smart Communities Certification, reflecting a strong commitment to policy enhancement for renewable energy and ecological preservation. Her expertise lies in translating complex sustainability challenges into actionable frameworks, fostering environmental stewardship and community resilience. Rhodes earned an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies from Brown University and completed the University of Pennsylvania’s Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy.
23. Lisa Cortes
Senior Director-Marketing & Communications | Spectrum Community Solutions, Spectrum
Lisa Cortes is the Senior Director-Marketing and Communications of Spectrum Community Solutions at Spectrum. Cortes has led teams ranging in size from five to 70 members. She has managed annual revenue goals from $163 million to $800 million. She transitioned a three-region territory into one large region by redesigning the organizational chart, redefining sales territories and compensation packages, and reducing headcount from 60 employees to 45, resulting in significant operational and cost efficiencies.
Cortes has 23 years of experience. She is a highly motivated and accomplished sales professional with extensive experience in B2B sales, business development, sales operations, and client relationship building within the competitive telecommunications industry. She has an uninterrupted record of year-over-year revenue growth in all leadership positions, gained through valuable experience in both Fortune 50 corporations and small startups. She is known for her ability to build long-lasting, productive relationships, expand opportunities in new markets, and grow market share.
Before joining Spectrum, Cortes was a vice president of business development at Korcett Holdings Inc. Before that, she was a vice president of commercial development in the Florida region at Comcast Cable. Earlier in her career, she worked with SBC/AT&T as a vice president of sales, marketing, and customer service. Cortes graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with an undergraduate degree in business administration/finance.
24. Aline Telemarque
Director, Global Marketing, Medtronic
Aline Telemarque is the Director of Global Marketing at Medtronic. She first joined the company in 2012 as a marketing summer associate. Medtronic is a medical technology company that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets medical devices and solutions. In this role, Telemarque manages operations and leads innovation and research to shape McKinsey's understanding of how companies can improve their innovation operating models and make strategic decisions to better navigate the current global uncertainty. She serves on the editorial board for McKinsey on Finance, a publication that offers insights into value-creating strategies and how to translate them into company performance.
Telemarque co-founded McKinsey's Digital Strategy line of business, where she built out its offerings and brought them to clients. She led research on the economic impact of digital disruption and worked with companies to transform their strategies and business models to remain competitive. Telemarque has led work with multiple organizations navigating large strategic, multi-year transformations that required both strategy and operational change. Her work includes assisting companies transitioning from B2B to B2C business models (and vice versa), guiding an organization scaling from a start-up culture to a larger operational model, and working with a company transforming from a product-oriented organization to one that had acquired a large services organization as a source of growth.
Previously, Telemarque was a project manager at IBM Global & Technology Services. Earlier in her career, she worked with Management Leadership for Tomorrow. Telemarque earned an MBA in Strategy and Marketing from Carnegie Mellon University and an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
25. Christina Arconti
Senior Director, Merchandise Planning, Ross Stores
Christina Arconti is the Senior Director of Merchandise Planning at Ross Stores. She first joined the company in 2015 as director of merchandise planning. For the last 40-plus years, Ross Stores, Inc. has grown from a six-store chain into a $20.4 billion, Fortune 500 company and continues to open new stores and their sales growth has outpaced traditional retailers for the past three years.
With 14 years of experience in merchandise planning, Arconti is a results-focused, quality-driven professional. She consistently achieves objectives and demonstrates strong forecasting and analysis skills. She is a highly motivated leader with advanced presentation abilities and exceptional relationship development skills and has a proven track record of improving sales and inventory performance while ensuring profitability and aligning with organizational goals.
Previously, Arconti was a vice president and divisional financial planning manager at Macy’s. Earlier in her career, she worked with Newtown Savings Bank as a consumer loan underwriter. Arconti earned an undergraduate degree in business administration and management from Post University.
26. Elizabeth Corte-Real
Head of US Global Insights & Analytics, Philip Morris International
Elizabeth Corte-Real is the Head of US Global Insights and Analytics of Philip Morris International (PMI), a leading international tobacco company working to deliver a smoke-free future and evolving its portfolio for the long term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector.
With over 25 years of experience, Corte-Real has developed a strong strategic skill set across all research and insight techniques in global, regional, and market leadership roles. She is passionate about finding creative ways to engage with consumers and shoppers through digital and behavioral techniques, resulting in business-centric insights and measurable impact. Additionally, she is a proven team leader and talent creator.
Before joining Philip Morris International, Corte-Real was a head of sparkling brand insights at The Coca-Cola Company. Earlier in her career, she worked with Unicer as a market research manager. Corte-Real graduated from Florida Metropolitan University with an MBA in Management. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and a Bachelor’s degree in Law.
27. Kristen Antonopoulos
VP, Business Segments Controller, American Express
Kristen Antonopoulos is the VP of Business Segments Controller of American Express. She first joined the company in 2006 as a financial analyst for AXP reporting and consolidations.
Antonopoulos is a senior finance professional with an extensive and varied background in controllership, having held multiple roles of increasing responsibility and complexity at American Express. She has a proven track record of collaborating with and influencing management and cross-functional stakeholders to drive successful outcomes. As a passionate and inclusive people leader, she is experienced in leading large, global teams while maintaining strong cohesion and engagement.
Previously, Antonopoulos was a financial analyst of worldwide consolidation accounting at IBM. She earned an MBA in Finance and Accounting from NYU Stern School of Business and an undergraduate degree from Western Connecticut State University.
28. Susan Vance
VP, Barclays
Susan Vance began her professional career 39 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President of Barclays, a diversified bank with comprehensive UK consumer, corporate wealth, and private banking franchises, a leading investment bank, and a strong, specialist US consumer bank.
Previously, Vance was an associate director at the National Futures Association, where she conducted risk-based examinations, reviewed the work of junior staff, and led a four-person team that kept abreast of developments in the industry. Earlier in her career, she was a director for Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, a VP at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, and an SVP at Vantage Global Advisors. Vance started her career in 1985 as a managing director at TSA Capital Management.
Vance graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with an MBA in Finance and from UCLA with an undergraduate degree in business, and economics.
29. Greta Wilson
VP, Global Marketing & Communications, Pitney Bowes
Greta Wilson is the Vice President of Global Marketing and Communications for the Sending Technology Solutions business at Pitney Bowes. She joined the company in 2013 to spearhead a new brand positioning and identity, transforming Pitney Bowes from a mailing manufacturer to a leading shipping and mailing technology company. Her efforts resulted in a completely new logo, design system, tone of voice, and brand architecture, replacing a 45-year-old legacy.
Since then, Wilson has launched a strategic brand advertising campaign, played a key role in celebrating the company’s 100th anniversary, and introduced new SaaS shipping products. These initiatives, along with the efforts of her talented marketing team, have significantly increased Pitney Bowes’ visibility and market interest, contributing to year-over-year revenue growth in new markets. Currently, Wilson leads marketing and communications for the $1.3 billion Sending Technology Solutions business, enabling sales, driving demand, and generating over $100 million in online revenue.
In total, Wilson has over 25 years of experience in the advertising and marketing industry. She began her career at Young & Rubicam in New York, held various marketing communications roles within IBM, and advanced to head of marketing at Bloomberg Media. Wilson has a BS in Applied Mathematics from Union College and an MS in Operations Research from the University of Southampton in the UK.
30. Lisa Trell
Head of Precious Metals Trading, Sumitomo Corporation
Lisa Trell is the Head of Precious Metals Trading of Sumitomo Corporation. She first joined the company in 2022. Sumitomo Corporation is an integrated trading company with a strong global network comprising 128 offices in 66 countries and regions.
Previously, Trell was a precious metals market consultant at Trell Advisory LLC. Before that, she was an executive vice president at Gerald Metals. Earlier in her career, she worked as a trader marketer.
Trell earned a Master's degree from NYU Stern School of Business and an undergraduate degree in labor and industrial relations from Cornell University.
31. Marji Chimes
Global VP, Branding, Content & Digital Experience, TTEC
Marji Chimes is the Global VP of branding, Content, and Digital Experience of TTEC. She first joined the company in 2012. TTEC Holdings, Inc. is a leading global CX (customer experience) technology and services innovator for AI-enabled digital CX solutions.
Chimes is an award-winning, creative, and entrepreneurial senior-level marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in developing, building, and implementing high-impact digital customer experience programs. She excels in out-of-the-box thinking, creative problem-solving, leadership, and team building. Her expertise includes brand development and management, disciplined change and process management, omnichannel marketing, and customer care strategy. Chimes was recognized with the CEO Award for overall excellence at TeleTech's 2017 Global Sales Kickoff.
Previously, Chimes was a chief marketing officer at Coda Signature. Before that, she was an SVP of global marketing at Peppers & Rogers Group. Earlier in her career, she worked with the American Heart Association as a special events coordinator. Chimes earned an undergraduate degree in psychology from Brown University.
32. Patti Glassford
VP & CFO, Industrial/Enterprise Solutions, GE Industrial
Patti Glassford is a Vice President and the Chief Financial Officer for Industrial and Enterprise Solutions at GE Industrial. General Electric Co (General Electric) is a high-tech industrial company that operates through aerospace, renewable energy, and power businesses.
Glassford has 25 years of experience. She has been with GE for much of her career, starting in her present capacity in 2007. She has also served as part of the NBC Universal team as the chief executive officer.
To help prepare for her future career as a financial executive and team leader, Glassford studied at Fairfield University.
33. Colleen Tycz
SVP, Head of Retirement & Insurance Strategic Accounts, Franklin Templeton
Colleen Tycz is the SVP and Head of Retirement and Insurance Strategic Accounts and Insurance Distribution at Franklin Templeton, the industry’s sixth-largest independent asset manager. In this role, she leads the team responsible for overseeing home office relationships and insurance field sales for the $152 billion division.
Previously, Tycz served as director and co-head of Legg Mason’s US Retirement Solutions Business with direct leadership of the overall National Accounts team and growth strategy. Before this role, she was responsible for maintaining and developing strategic relationships for Legg Mason within the Insurance/Sub-Advisory and Defined Contribution Investment Only businesses and led the Institutional Channel Marketing team.
Tycz is a member of NAPA and served as co-chair of the Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) Asset Management Leadership Committee. She was awarded the 2024 IRI Leadership Award in recognition of commitment and leadership in the insured retirement industry, and she was named to IRI’s Top Influential and Innovative Leaders Under 40 in 2017. Passionate about advancement in DE&I, she was named as a 2023 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leader with DICAA. She is an active member of the Dolan School of Business Advisory Board at Fairfield University and graduated from Fairfield in 2004 with her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. She received her MBA from Fairfield in 2011.
34. Amanda Janusz
VP, Multi-Asset Solutions, Goldman Sachs
Amanda Janusz is the Vice President, of Multi-Asset Solutions of Goldman Sachs, a leading global financial institution that delivers a broad range of financial services to a large and diversified client base that includes corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals.
Janusz started her career in 2007 as an investment analyst at Aon. She stayed with Aon for over 15 years, advancing through the ranks into positions of increasing responsibilities. These roles included senior investment analyst, investment consultant, and senior investment consultant. She ended her tenure there as an associate partner.
Janusz graduated from The University of Connecticut School of Business with an MBA in Finance and from Williams College with an undergraduate degree in economics.
35. Raji Ramamoorthy
VP, Marketing Technology, Capital One
Raji Ramamoorthy is the Vice President of Marketing Technology at Capital One. Her key skills and abilities include program management, project management (PMP certified), and product management. She is also skilled in agile transformation, solutions architecture, and vendor management. Additionally, she has experience in global technology leadership, Salesforce CRM, and cloud technologies such as AWS.
Ramamoorthy is an experienced technology leader with strong business acumen and a proven track record in delivering technology solutions that meet business needs. She leverages her program and product management skills to understand complex business challenges and deliver successful outcomes. She has a strong reputation for building collaborative relationships, motivating talent, and driving organizational transformation.
Before joining Capital One, Ramamoorthy was a VP of engineering services for Peacock TV at NBCUniversal Media, LLC. Before that, she was a VP of technology and product engineering at Synapse Group Inc. & TCS (Time Warner, Time, Meredith). Earlier in her career, she worked with Patni Computer Systems Ltd. as a software consultant. Ramamoorthy graduated from the University of Mumbai with an undergraduate degree in electronics.
36. Kelly Giordano
Managing Director, Philanthropy, Webster Bank
Kelly Giordano has nearly 25 years of experience in the philanthropy, nonprofit sectors, and finance/corporate sectors with comprehensive experience in foundations, corporate philanthropy, employee engagement, community outreach, strategy and program development, and organizational/budget/project management.
Kelly started in June 2023 as the Managing Director, Philanthropy for Webster Bank directing Webster’s philanthropic funding strategy and programming across Webster's footprint. Most recently as Managing Director at Newman’s Own Foundation, Kelly was responsible for leading the grants team, which included developing, evolving, and implementing the Foundation’s grantmaking strategy, focus areas, philanthropic programs, and processes/procedures. Kelly directed a $25-$30 million annual global grants budget, totaling over $250 million during her 10-year tenure, in addition to managing a $2 million annual foundation operating budget. Kelly started her career at Goldman Sachs as a controller in both the currency/commodities and private wealth management divisions, before leaving the firm to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector and corporate philanthropy. After Goldman Sachs, she interned at Channel Thirteen in New York City and spent two years at The Metropolitan Museum of Art where she managed the museum’s Corporate Patron Program. Prior to Newman’s Own, Kelly spent five years at Lehman Brothers as a Vice President of the Corporate Philanthropy group and Assistant Treasurer of The Lehman Brothers Foundation. Kelly developed and managed the firm’s Employee Giving Campaign and Nonprofit Board Placement program, in addition to managing the Foundation’s financials, annual audit, and tax filing. Earlier in her career, Kelly spent time at Goldman Sachs and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Kelly received her bachelor’s degree in economics/finance and Spanish from Bucknell University. Kelly is a former Vice Chair of the Norwalk Education Foundation and a Board Member of the Connecticut Council for Philanthropy. When not working, Kelly loves spending time with her two teenagers and dog Cosmo, playing tennis, seeing live music, and traveling. She is also the very proud Bucknell mom of ’27.
37. Nancy Jen
Senior Director, Finance, NBCUniversal Media
Nancy Jen began her professional career 34 years ago. Today, she is the Senior Director of Finance at NBCUniversal Media, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies.
Jen started at NBCUniversal Media as a finance manager focused on corporate financial planning and analysis and broadcast network operations. She stayed in this role she kept for nearly five years. She then switched her focus to the NBC Olympics for the next seven years. She was promoted to director of finance in 2012 and then to her current position in 2019.
Jen began her career as an accountant at Hess Corporation. She was then a financial analyst at Merck before joining NBCUniversal. She graduated from Binghamton University with a degree in accounting.
38. Carol Tusch
VP, Trusts & investments & Chief Investment Officer, International Paper
Carol Tusch is the Vice President of Trusts and Investments and the Chief Investment Officer at International Paper, a global producer of planet-friendly packaging, pulp, and other fiber-based products, and one of the world's largest recyclers. She joined the company’s investment team in Stamford in 1999 and has taken on increasing levels of responsibility throughout her career.
At International Paper, Tusch has helped to manage the day-to-day operations of the defined contribution and defined benefit plans, valued at more than $16 billion. Her most recent role was deputy CIO, which she held for three years. Before International Paper, Tusch spent 16 years at Verizon Investment Management, where she was senior portfolio manager until 1999.
Tusch holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Connecticut, and a BS in Finance from Fairfield University, and attended Yale School of Management for an executive program on Women on Boards.
39. Dee Vaswani
Senior VP, Aon
Dee Vaswani is the Senior Vice President of Aon. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated risk capital and human capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, Aon provides clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that help protect and grow their businesses.
Vaswani has 24 years of experience. Before joining Aon, she was a senior principal at Mercer Health & Benefits, where she was a lead consultant with responsibilities that included managing client relationships, helping large and mid-sized clients develop innovative multi-year benefit strategies, and providing strategic oversight across several areas including network strategy, cost management, and program design. She had extensive experience in vendor evaluation and implementation, financial analysis, funding arrangements, and large-scale project management. She also worked with Mercer’s merger and acquisition team, supporting transactions involving benefit integration strategy and execution, divestiture support, and health and welfare due diligence.
Vaswani graduated from the University of New Haven with an undergraduate degree in mathematics and computer science.
40. Hilary Roberts
VP, Strategic Partners Program, Franklin Resources Inc.
Today, Hilary Roberts is the Vice President of the Strategic Partners Program at Franklin Resources Inc., a global investment management company that provides investment management and related services to retail, institutional, and high-net-worth clients in jurisdictions around the world.
Roberts has over 28 years of work experience in various roles at Franklin Templeton. She previously served as the strategic partnerships marketing director. In these roles, she developed marketing plans to drive engagement with global client decision-makers, created messaging to promote Franklin Templeton as a strategic partner, and led media collaboration for brand awareness. Before that, she was the vice president of global institutional communications and education, where she led internal and client communications for major acquisition events and proposed a management board for business growth. Roberts also served as the vice president of global brand strategy, director of brand and corporate marketing, director of global corporate marketing, and various other positions during their tenure at the company.
To prepare for her career, Roberts attended the University of Arizona, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and Humanities.
41. Anna Beckerman
Head of School Group Travel - Rustic Pathways
Anna Beckerman is the Head of School Group Travel at Rustic Pathways. Founded in 1983, Rustic Pathways is the world’s leading student travel brand. The company has a renowned reputation for creativity, innovation, and adventure. Through purposeful design, Rustic Pathways’ culturally immersive programs develop globally-minded self-aware students to identify their interests and passions, gain confidence, grow as individuals, and create a positive impact at a local and global level.
Beckerman launched the school group travel division at Rustic Pathways and has grown the product line into the company's largest business vertical. In her role as Head of School Group Travel, Beckerman oversees every aspect of Rustic Pathways’ customized, private group travel line, including developing innovative programs, forging partnerships with schools, preparing for travel logistics, and ensuring the delivery of exceptional travel experiences.
In her 14-year tenure at Rustic Pathways, Beckerman's previous roles have included promotions marketing, design, lead generation, sales, operations, and travel programming. Prior to her promotion to Head of School Group Travel, she was the company's Vice President of Sales. Her meticulous attention to detail, passion for education, and dedication to delivering incredible experiences have made her a pivotal figure in the organization.
Beckerman holds a dual degree in geology and Chinese language and literature from Dartmouth College and is an alumna of School Year Abroad.
42. Virginia Fischetti
Partner, Executive Compensation, Aon Hewitt
Virginia Fischetti began her professional career 28 years ago. Today, she is the Partner of Executive Compensation at Aon Hewitt. At Aon, the team provides clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that help protect and grow their businesses.
Fischetti started her career in 1990 at Watson Wyatt as a consultant focused on benefits and executive compensation. She started at Aon about six years later. She has expertise in deferred compensation, executive pay, and employee benefits. Her skills also include performance management, human resources, and talent acquisition. Fischetti is experienced in employee engagement, organizational effectiveness, and mergers and acquisitions. She is skilled in succession planning, onboarding, talent management, and organizational design.
Fischetti graduated from NYU Stern School of Business with an MBA in Finance and International Business and from Amherst College with an undergraduate degree in economics.
43. Sherry Wyatt
Director of Sales, Pinstripes
Sherry Wyatt is the Director of Sales at Pinstripes. Pinstripes is a best-in-class experiential dining and entertainment brand, combining bistro, bowling, bocce, and private event spaces for every type of event.
Sherry’s main emphasis is on sales strategy, development, revenue goals, and team leadership. Before joining Pinstripes, she was the Director of Sales for 10 years at Artisan Restaurant/Delamar integrating business development, marketing, sales, and public relations around a cohesive brand, sales strategy, and team leadership.
Sherry has over 30 years in the hospitality business ranging from event and hotel sales, and management to restaurant ownership in New York City and Connecticut. She also has a strong commitment to community service including raising capital and volunteering with organizations such as “Positive Exposure” with award-winning photographer Rick Guidotti, “Rock Asylum” and musician, educator, and creator Paulie Z, “Sarcoma Foundation” & “Pathways to Housing”.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time and cooking with family and friends. She finds pleasure in playing tennis, playing cards, and traveling with her 4 daughters and husband.
44. Kate Davidson
VP, Commercial Strategy, Henkel
Kate Davidson is the Vice President of Commercial Strategy at Henkel. Founded in 1876, Henkel holds leading positions in many markets and categories around the world.
Davidson has 24 years of experience. She delivers growth, whether the metrics are net sales, operating profit, or the organizational strength of a team. She drives results using her leadership experience in marketing, trade management, S&OP, category management, sales, strategic planning, and competitive analysis. She grows great teams by building a culture centered on energy, passion, empowerment, and accountability. She develops relationships with FMCG retailers and consumers through strong communication and delivering on promises.
Previously, Davidson was the director of commercial strategy for Henkel, where she grew over $200 million in private brands through innovation, insights, and retailer partnerships to build brand equity and exceed consumer expectations. Earlier in her career, she worked with Kellogg Company as a national account sales executive. Davidson graduated from Babson College with an undergraduate degree in marketing and economics.
45. Yanique Whynes
Program Director, Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program Outpatient
Yanique Whynes is the Program Director for PHP/IOP services with the Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program in Southport, CT. Their mission is to help people lead more fulfilling lives by looking at the person behind their diagnosis, rather than the diagnosis itself. The Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program is located on both the East Coast and the West Coast.
Yanique has over 20 years of experience working with children and their families with a background in special education. She is also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Yanique’s leadership is marked by her passion for serving others and providing exceptional customer service experiences.
Her core competencies and values include teamwork, problem-solving, communication, decision-making, self-motivation, integrity, work-life balance, and self-care. Yanique holds an MA in Psychology, an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a BA in Psychology. During her free time, she likes spending time with her son, family, and friends.
46. Rose Gargone
Senior Director, Health & Benefits, WTW
Rose Gargone is the Senior Director of Health & Benefits of WTW. She first joined the company in 1990 as a healthcare consultant. At WTW, they provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk, and capital. Gargone is responsible for building and expanding client relationships in the Metro-NY area.
Over the past 30 years, Gargone has consulted for organizations in a variety of industries, including media, manufacturing, transportation, retail, and pharmaceutical. She aligns WTW consulting services to meet client needs, benefits, and business objectives. She works with clients to solve complex human resource issues, including strategy development, the design of employee benefit programs, and enhancing the employee experience related to benefits outsourcing, talent, and rewards.
Previously, Gargone was a claims manager at Northwestern National Life. She earned an undergraduate degree in business administration and management from Central Connecticut State University.
47. Melissa Phillips
Regional VP, Travelers
Melissa Phillips is the Regional Vice President of Travelers. Travelers provide insurance coverage to protect the things that are important to people and have earned a reputation as one of the best property casualty insurers in the industry because they take care of their customers, agents, brokers, communities, and each other.
Phillips has been with Travelers for over two decades. She started as an account executive officer in 2004. She was then promoted to managing director in 2010, where she managed the Private and Nonprofit Business Unit in the NYC Metro Area. She accepted her current position in 2017.
Phillips started her career in 1999 as an assistant vice president at Willis. From there, she eventually rose to senior underwriter at Gulf Insurance Company, her most recent position before joining Travelers. Phillips graduated from the College of Insurance with an undergraduate degree in insurance.
48. Gail Rooney
Director of Sales & Events, The Hilton Stamford Hotel & Executive Meeting Center, Atrium Hospitality
Gail Rooney is the Director of Sales and Events of The Hilton Stamford Hotel & Executive Meeting Center of Atrium Hospitality. Located outside of New York City, the Hilton Stamford Hotel & Executive Meeting Center offers the ideal combination of convenience, comfort, and courteous service. The largest non-casino meeting venue in Connecticut, the hotel boasts 484 guest rooms, spacious suites, and IACC approved Executive Meeting Center.
Rooney has 28 years of experience. Before joining The Hilton Stamford Hotel & Executive Meeting Center of Atrium Hospitality, Rooney was a catering sales manager at the Hilton Stamford Hotel. Before that, she was a senior catering sales manager at Tarrytown House.
Rooney graduated from Western New England University with an undergraduate degree in business administration and management.
49. Mariann Hyde
Director, Head of Central Data Science, Americas, Boehringer-Ingelheim
Mariann Hyde is the Director and Head of Central Data Science for the Americas at Boehringer-Ingelheim. She first joined the company in 2020 as a senior scrum master. Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in human and animal health.
Hyde is a versatile IT professional with over 20 years of experience in developing software applications to support diverse business objectives and improve business processes. She is a respected leader with a proven track record of bridging the communication gap between business partners and technology teams to drive improved performance and achieve project deliverables.
Previously, Hyde was a consultant/owner at Hyde & Seek Consulting. Before that, she was a program manager at Mindlance. Earlier in her career, she worked with Transcentive as a programmer/product support. Hyde earned an MBA in Management from the University of Connecticut School of Business and an undergraduate degree in computer science from Hartwick College.
50. Lindsay Gardner
VP, Finance & Treasurer, Stryker
Lindsey Gardner joined Stryker as Vice President and Treasurer in April 2024. Stryker is a global leader in medical technologies and, together with its customers, is driven to make healthcare better.
Before joining Stryker, Gardner spent 23 years with GE, where she most recently served as deputy treasurer, leading corporate finance activities across credit ratings, capital structure, capital allocation, liquidity, and bank relationships. In that role, Gardner led the simplification and strengthening of the balance sheet to support the company’s transformation and growth strategy. Before that, she held various finance and risk management leadership positions at GE, including corporate audit, stress testing, and capital adequacy.
As part of her career preparation, Gardner holds a Bachelor's degree in finance from Pennsylvania State University.