MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT
Nicole Wakka
Managing Director, Treasury Sales Executive
Bank of America
Sharing her career journey by answering the six questions below.
Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your career?
I’ve been most inspired by the people I’ve worked with across different markets and cultures. Having the chance to work internationally has taught me a lot about resilience, adaptability, and the value of perspective. I’m especially drawn to leaders who balance strong commercial thinking with authenticity and care for others, and who create environments where people feel supported and able to do their best work. Those examples have quietly influenced how I try to lead and show up.
Would you say your success is primarily due to luck or hard work?
Probably a thoughtful mix of both. I’ve worked hard and tried to be intentional about where I focus my energy, but I’m also very aware that timing and circumstance play a role. Being in the right place at the right time matters. When opportunities have come along, I’ve done my best to meet them with commitment and follow‑through, often with the support and guidance of others around me.
What is the driving force behind your career aspirations?
I’m motivated by making a positive impact and continuing to grow. I enjoy building things over time, whether that’s teams, partnerships, or trusted client relationships. I’m also naturally curious and like to keep learning, developing, and contributing at a level where I can add value and help shape outcomes, not necessarily in a visible way, but a meaningful one.
If given the chance to do one thing differently in your career, what would it be and why?
I think I would have been more confident earlier on about sharing my perspective and advocating for my work. Early in my career, I tended to focus on doing the job well and assumed that would speak for itself. With experience, I’ve learned that visibility and self‑advocacy, done thoughtfully, help create opportunities and broaden impact.
What was your most favourite job/role and why?
My time working in China was particularly formative. It was a complex and fast‑moving environment, with a very different regulatory, cultural, and commercial landscape. That experience pushed me to listen more carefully, adapt quickly, and build trust in more nuanced ways. It stretched my thinking and shaped how I approach clients, risk, and leadership in diverse settings today.
Do you have a favourite motto or quote that guides your professional life?
I don’t have a single formal motto, but I believe in showing up with consistency and following through on commitments. Confidence can open doors, but it’s reliability, care, and quality of execution that build trust and lasting relationships.