Another edition of Maria Pinto’s Spotlight Series, In Her Own Words, is here. Each month, we feature the dynamic, stylish, and powerful women who inspire us daily.
This month’s spotlight features Leslie Anderson, U.S. Head of Insurance Distribution at BMO Wealth Management.
Leslie is wearing the Leigh Dress and Russell Jacket in Viterbo with the Python Belt in Black.
What was your path to getting where you are today?
I have been fortunate to have a very diverse background in banking – from Commercial and Business Banking sales leadership to Technology and Operations strategic leadership to my most recent role as Global Head of Wealth One Client Sales leadership; a role that I believe allowed me to bring to bear all my banking experiences as I was charged with driving strategy across the bank to deepen client relationships and strengthen client loyalty. All these roles laid the groundwork to prepare me for my current role to build out our U.S. Insurance practice.
How do you create a work-life balance for yourself?
I don’t really believe in work-life balance – you have one life and oftentimes to prioritize one thing, something else must suffer. I prioritize and hold most sacred my family and my health and I give work my best (take note that I did not say my all) everyday. Since breast cancer, I have gained greater clarity about life and what’s important – which has shaped where I spend my time and how I invest in my joy everyday.
What are some challenges you've faced in your job or in your life, and how have you tackled them?
I have faced a myriad of business and personal challenges throughout my career. From a business perspective, I have had to step into roles that were vaguely or undefined and create wins for the bank while building out my mandate. One of the ways that I have tackled this challenge is to always focus my work with the strategic priorities of the organization and to always keep the client experience as my North Star. From a personal perspective, most recently (2020) I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I can say unequivocally that I tackled cancer by leaning on my faith in the one who is the ultimate healer – God – and following the advice and guidance of my medical team.
What do you love and appreciate about being a woman?
I love everything about being a woman – my strength, my vulnerability, my sensuality, my style, my capacity to love and be loved and my drive to be the very best. Biggest challenge….being underestimated – but they all learn one way or another once I show up. What brings me joy – being my authentic self and of course dressing up in my favorite wares….
Leslie is wearing the Fontaine Jacket in Orbit and the Zadie Pant in Black.
How would you describe your personal style?
Classy but edgy.
What's important to you when you're buying clothing?
Comfort, fit, and more recently ease of care – I love this new wave of wash and wear.
Who are some of your style or fashion icons?
Maria Pinto
Best piece of advice you've ever received?
There is power in responding versus reacting.
What are you watching, reading, and/or listening to right now?
I really focus on my health as this is the foundation for everything. I’m not perfect by any I am watching The Morning Show and I absolutely loved The Equalizer with Queen Latifah.
Leslie is wearing the Ana Tunic and Millicent Pant in Neptune.
How do you take care of yourself?
I love on myself often – massages, dinners alone and with friends, sitting quietly talking to God.
If you could live anywhere (and money is no object), where would you choose?
Barbados – where my mom was born and raised.
Best gift you ever recieved?
Surviving Cancer…and my husband.
What are some of your favorite features of the Maria Pinto collection?
The bright colors are my favorites.
What are your favorite Maria Pinto pieces? Why?
Some of the unique patterned pants suits, the bolero jackets are my faves too. I always love a great dress in a bright color.
All looks styled with jewelry available in our Chicago Boutique.
Photo Credit: Special thanks to Ana Miyares for the stunning photography.