In today’s episode, we are shining a spotlight on Elisabeth Wadsworth. Elisabeth has spent the last 15 years working within finance, investment banking, hedge funds and PE. A true NYC powerhouse, Elisabeth discusses her non-traditional journey from political science major to high-impact board advisor. Beyond her exciting career journey, we cover entering the workforce amidst financial downturn, the importance and value of stewardship and building high impact teams, and fostering D&I, in and out of the board room. Throughout the episode, Elisabeth and Alexis offer lots of great insight and wisdom from both personal and professional perspectives, applicable to professionals at any stage of their careers.

Episode Outline and Highlights

(1:57) Elisabeth discusses her career journey and transitions along the way. She goes from business school, investment banking, portfolio management, to being a trusted investor and board director, with many twists and turns. She also touches on her passion for governance, and investing from a human capital perspective.

(3:30) How important is timing when it comes to opportunities and leaving for a new role?

(5:50) Elisabeth and Alexis share their thoughts on networking. Elisabeth discusses the importance of advocating for networking, natural ways to connect with others and shares how it has shaped her career. “Once you detach from the desired outcome, at the end of the day, networking is just a conversation. One conversation can lead to a lifetime of conversations.” - yes!

(9:57) Elisabeth describes the most impactful events or factors that shaped her career progression. Graduating from Wharton at the start of a major economic downturn threw a wrench in millions of recents grads' career plans. Elisabeth used it to her benefit. She's also an advocate for business school, especially for those coming from non-traditional backgrounds, like herself.

(16:35) Elisabeth shares her definition of success. For her, it’s all about the team, and enabling others to be great.

(22:06) What does “Beyond Diversity and Inclusion” mean to you? Elisabeth and Alexis share their opinions, initiatives and “a-ha” moments in regards to D&I.

(32:02) In your opinion, how can one be a champion of D&I at an individual contributor level? Elisabeth discusses the importance of self-education, challenging assumptions and engaging in meaningful conversations.

Elisabeth Wadsworth Bio and Contact Info

Elisabeth Wadsworth is an investor, board member, and writer. She’s also an avid reader and self-described urban enthusiast. Elisabeth has spent 15 years working in finance, from investment banking to hedge funds to private equity. She’s served in a variety of roles, including portfolio management and board advisory. In her most recent role, she is an Advisor at Palingen Capital, a lower middle market evergreen firm.

Elisabeth on LinkedIn

Palingen Capital Website | LinkedIn

People and Resources Mentioned/Highlighted

Friends of the Children - A nationwide organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of generational poverty through salaried, professional mentoring. 

Women of Consequence - Chanel Dokun

Connect with Alexis Alvarez

Alexis on LinkedIn

Alexis on email [email protected]