In the world of finance and corporate leadership, few individuals bring such a rich tapestry of experience as Priya Jaiswal. With a career spanning pivotal roles in banking, insurance, and nonprofit organizations, Priya’s insights into market dynamics and strategic growth are sought after by many. Today, she steps into her new role as Executive Vice President – Mid-Atlantic at Choice Financial Group. We discuss her journey, strategic goals, and the nuances of leading in a rapidly evolving market.
Can you tell us about your career journey and what experiences led you to join Choice Financial Group?
I’ve always been driven by a deep interest in how financial systems work and their impact on people. My career began in banking, where I developed core skills in managing relationships and understanding finance’s critical role in everyday life. Transitioning to insurance and later nonprofit sectors, I was able to blend strategic goals with societal benefits. Joining Choice Financial Group felt like a natural progression for me, as it offered a broader platform to implement innovative ideas while upholding strong partnerships.
What attracted you to the Executive Vice President – Mid-Atlantic role at CFG?
The unique appeal of this role is the opportunity to lead in a region that’s ripe with potential. The ability to focus on regions like Maryland and Washington, D.C., where dynamic growth can be aligned with strategic development, is thrilling. Also, CFG’s philosophy of fostering entrepreneurial independence, while supporting collaboration across its network, truly resonates with my values.
How do you plan to leverage your leadership experience in banking, insurance, and nonprofit sectors in your new role?
My diverse experience allows me to look at the business challenges from various angles. In banking, the emphasis was on client trust and relationship management, crucial for understanding market needs. The insurance sector honed my strategic planning skills, and my nonprofit work taught me about inclusive growth and risk management. These experiences collectively enable me to develop holistic strategies that drive sustainable growth in CFG.
Could you elaborate on your main goals and priorities for the Mid-Atlantic region, especially your focus areas in Maryland, Washington, D.C., West Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina?
Each of these regions offers unique challenges and opportunities. My primary focus will be on talent development and market penetration. Strengthening our presence means not only understanding regional dynamics but also tailoring services to meet local needs. Building strong local teams who can respond with agility and expertise will be vital.
What strategies will you implement to foster talent development within CFG?
I’m a firm believer in mentoring and continuous learning. We will create a culture that encourages personal and professional growth where employees feel empowered to innovate. Identifying potential leaders early and providing them with the tools and mentorship they need will be essential. Another strategy will focus on cross-departmental collaboration to diversify skillsets and encourage a broader perspective.
How do you intend to approach mergers and acquisitions in the Mid-Atlantic region?
Successful M&A requires a meticulous understanding of market conditions and company values. My approach will be both strategic and analytical, looking for opportunities that complement CFG’s ethos and enhance our strengths. It is important that any acquisition aligns with our vision and contributes positively to our long-term objectives.
What techniques will you use to strengthen market relationships in your new position?
Relationships are at the core of effective business operations. I will focus on open communication and active listening to understand our partners’ and clients’ evolving needs. Building trust through consistent performance and personalized services aids in creating partnerships that withstand market fluctuations.
What are the key factors for driving growth that you believe are essential for success in the Mid-Atlantic region?
Local expertise and understanding are instrumental in driving growth. Alongside this, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability allows for rapid response to changes. It’s also important to leverage technology to enhance service delivery and customer engagement, which keeps us competitive.
How has your past experience with Mid-Penn Insurance and TowneBank prepared you for this role at CFG?
At Mid-Penn and TowneBank, I gained invaluable insights into business integration and customer-focused service. Leading teams through expansion taught me the importance of maintaining core values while adapting strategies. These experiences have primed me to tackle the broader challenges present in the Mid-Atlantic market.
In what ways did your role as Chief Development Officer and Risk Manager at VersAbility Resources shape your leadership style?
My time at VersAbility taught me the significance of inclusive growth and adaptive risk management. As a leader, it’s crucial to build teams that are diverse in thinking but united in purpose. Balancing ambition with prudence ensures that growth is sustainable and responsibly managed.
How important is maintaining entrepreneurial independence to you, and how does Choice Financial Group support that value?
Entrepreneurial independence allows for creativity and agility, both of which are imperative in today’s fast-paced environment. Choice Financial Group values this independence while also offering a collaborative framework. It means we are agile like a startup but supported like a large organization—a balance that’s crucial for maintaining innovation.
Could you explain the significance of effective collaboration among agency partners at CFG?
Collaboration amplifies individual strengths and mitigates weaknesses. At CFG, effective collaboration is about aligning missions and sharing best practices to achieve common goals. It ensures that we provide comprehensive solutions that are greater than the sum of their parts.
What excites you most about working with Bob Hilb and the rest of the CFG leadership team?
Bob Hilb’s visionary leadership and the collective experience of the CFG team are profound assets. There’s a shared commitment to innovation and excellence at all levels. Working with such driven and knowledgeable leaders is motivating; it keeps the energy high and propels us toward ambitious goals.
How do you balance the need for strategic thinking with the execution of detailed tasks for clients and partners?
Strategic thinking and detailed execution go hand-in-hand. It’s about setting a clear vision while ensuring that the finer aspects are meticulously managed. I foster an environment where strategic plans are broken into actionable tasks, with clear responsibilities and timelines to maintain momentum.
Can you share more about your involvement in the local nonprofit community in Williamsburg, Virginia, and how it influences your professional life?
Community involvement keeps me grounded and closely connected to societal needs. It provides perspective, reminding me of the broader impact our work can have. This sense of responsibility influences my professional decisions, aiming for outcomes that benefit both business and community.
Do you have any advice for our readers?
In this rapidly changing world, adaptability and lifelong learning are key. Stay curious and open to new ideas, as they spark innovation. Additionally, nurturing relationships based on trust can lead to enduring success both personally and professionally.
