MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT

MEGAN WILEY

VP, Head of Channel Strategy

U.S. Bank

Sharing her career journey by answering the six questions below.

Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your career?

 Inspiration comes from an abundance of places: my two sons, my husband, my parents, small business owners, and so many people in my community (personally and professionally). When I witness determination at a baseball game, perseverance at a triathlon, resilience at work, courage to have intimidating conversations, I am inspired.

Would you say your success is primarily due to luck or hard work?

Both. “Who you know gets you there, what you know keeps you there.” I feel lucky to have such amazing mentors and sponsors who ideate with me through tough decision making, push me to challenge myself, and help me develop as a leader and individual. It takes a community to get through life and I am fortunate to have the support of some crazy smart, super empathetic, and honestly authentic individuals. Plus, my self-motivated work ethic helps too!

What is the driving force behind your career aspirations?

 I want to be a good contributor to society, show my sons that you can do it all, although sometimes it gets overwhelming, and then give it back. My aspirations are not about a title, a pay grade, or how big of a team I lead…they look more like paying what I have learned forward, proving that I can dream big and accomplish great things, and helping contribute to this is awesome country we are privileged to be a part of.

If given the chance to do one thing differently in your career, what would it be and why?

Boost my self-confidence. If I could go back just a few years, I would tell myself to believe – believe that I am smart, resilient, capable, and determined. A little bit of imposter syndrome can be good for the soul, help you remain humble, and create curiosity, but don’t let it hinder your decision making or your self-confidence.

What was your most favourite job/role and why?

Where I am today, leading strategy to grow our merchant revenue. This team is second to none, the work is extremely challenging, and rewarding, and I love helping small business owners.

Do you have a favourite motto or quote that guides your professional life?

My mantra is “I focus, I create.” This is the way I intentionally choose to live my life. If I want to achieve something, whether in my professional or personal life, I start to focus on it, dream about it, talk to other people about what it could look like. Through these actions, I can create a path to achieve my goal.