MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT
SONIA DOS SANTOS
SVP – Credit Risk, Collections & Fraud
Elavon/ 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?
Watching my parents navigate incredibly tough times, moving countries and rebuilding their lives while supporting an entire family has been one of the greatest sources of inspiration in my life. Even at their lowest, they never gave up hope. Their resilience and unwavering determination taught me the value of perseverance and hard work. They instilled in me a mindset of continuous self-improvement and a work ethic that has shaped not only my success, but also my sense of fulfilment.
Would you say your success is primarily due to luck or hard work?
In my experience, it’s a combination of both. Consistent effort, discipline, and a commitment to learning have helped me stay prepared and adaptable in a changing world. Hard work has positioned me to recognize and act on the right opportunities when they come along. That said, luck has undeniably played a role in my journey. Being in the right place at the right time has influenced some key outcomes. However, I’ve found that hard work is the foundation, it’s the preparation that makes you ready when opportunity knocks. In essence, hard work creates the conditions for success and luck is often what activates it.
What is the driving force behind your career aspirations?
What drives much of what I do is a desire to make a meaningful impact, whether by helping others or contributing to something greater than myself. Seeing the tangible results of my efforts especially the positive effect they have on others or on the teams I’m part of, gives me a strong sense of pride and fulfilment. That sense of purpose continues to motivate me to grow, push boundaries and strive for more.
If given the chance to do one thing differently in your career, what would it be and why?
If I could do one thing differently, I would have recognised my worth sooner. For a long time, I saw many successes as simply meeting expectations rather than acknowledging them as real achievements. Looking back and giving myself credit for those milestones would have built the confidence to aim higher and take bolder steps earlier in my journey.
What was your most favourite job/role and why?
Professionally I find the most fulfillment in roles that challenge me. I thrive in environments where I’m pushed to think critically and solve problems. At the same time, I truly enjoy working with others, collaborating, interacting, and finding solutions together. The more engagement and teamwork the better. I’m at my best when tackling challenges head on and helping to create clarity and progress through collaboration.
Do you have a favourite motto or quote that guides your professional life?
I believe in focusing on what we can control and letting go of what we can’t. Channelling energy into what’s within our reach , improving, adapting, and taking action is the most effective way to move forward, grow and evolve. It’s a mindset that keeps me grounded, resilient and future focused.
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