Bronwen Bastone | Southwest Power Pool Board of Directors | Exos Financial – Owner
Beginning Interests…I started my career on the business side of finance and quickly learned that my skills and passion were better suited in human capital. Being able to work with highly intelligent, motivated people and to be able to support them in their journey to a successful career was super exciting to me. In this field you can truly be the architect of change by attracting the right people, training them, knowing when to challenge them or give them broader opportunities, knowing how to develop dynamic teams and overall being part of creating a learning culture that embraces change and innovation. There is no better role.
A Day at Work… I am a big believer in you can have it all, just at different times. Balance is key. Each day is diverse and brings new and exciting challenges. Each challenge needs a set of solutions – there is no one-size fit’s all. I get to work across the organization and see all aspects of the business. The ability to act decisively and in a timely manner to an array of tasks is key.
Career Evolution…I started my career at Merrill Lynch in the equity division. I was exposed to many sides of our industry including many geographies. I was fortunate to have many strong mentors throughout my career who pushed me and provided me with growth opportunities along the way. I never turned down an opportunity to travel, learn and grow, no matter how daunting the opportunity seemed at the time.
LOVE the Work…The people! Which I guess is a good thing being in Human Capital. Having a strong network in any role is important and should not be taken for granted. A network should be something you work on consistently and authentically and should never be taken for granted.
Surprising, but True…The possibilities are endless. Having a background in STEAM will allow you to have a wide range of job opportunities and provide you with fundamental skills that we never be obsolete. The jobs of the future will all require STEAM and young women who embrace innovation and critical thinking will certainly find success in areas such as financial technology, robotics, medicine, electric cars and space travel to name a few.
Advice…Find a good mentor and be one. Take calculated risks and never pass up an opportunity, you never know what is around the corner. Network, network, network.
These wonder women are redefining what “full STEAM ahead” means in Arkansas. With exciting careers in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics – each reflects WIT (Women in Tech) and true grit for making the most of every opportunity. Here’s to the powHER of knowledge.
