Episode 286: Crack the Code of Career Success with Joanna Welsh, Chief Risk Officer at Citadel

Have you ever stumbled upon your true calling in the most unexpected way? Meet our guest Joanna Welsh, who shares how she found her passion in risk management, all while starting out in the world of molecular biology and genetic engineering. Her story is a testament to the power of serendipity and the importance of being open to unexpected twists in our career paths. Joanna proves that sometimes the best fit is found where you least expect it. Today, Joanna Welsh is the Chief Risk Officer at Citadel and also chairs the firm’s Portfolio Committee advising on risk tolerance levels for the strategies, businesses and funds. Joanna highlights the importance of finding the right fit in terms of people and culture. She emphasizes the significance of not settling for a place that doesn't align with your goals and values, and encourages us to seek environments where you can work with the best people in your field. Whether you're navigating your career or looking for ways to advance in your profession, Joanna's insights on taking risks and continuously learning from experiences will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new opportunities. Tune in to this episode and discover how finding the right fit can lead to greater success and fulfillment. Visit https://www.gobeyondbarriers.com where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with Joanna. Highlights: [02:47] Joanna’s career path [06:23] Advice for overcoming roadblocks [10:00] Taking risks [12:40] Surrounding yourself with the best people [14:49] Pushing yourself as your role expands [19:19] What Joanna focused on with her risk management team [24:35] Returning to work at the office [27:17] Work/life balance [30:44] Joanna’s philosophy on relationships and networks [36:13] Citadel’s move to Miami [39:13] Advice for ambitious women wanting to advance their careers [41:04] Lightning round questions Quotes: “Don’t underestimate the power of being around the best people in your field.” – Joanna Welsh “I’d rather be the nth best person on a team of superstars than the star person on an okay team.” – Joanna Welsh “As the risk manager, the more eyes you can put on things that you’re doing, the better.” – Joanna Welsh Lightning Round Questions: What book has greatly influenced you? - “The Double Helix” by James D. Watson What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying? - “If you don’t have time to do it right, when are you going to have time to do it over?” What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself? - Impatient What is one change you've implemented that made your life better? - I love schedules, routines, and preparing. What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage? - “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC About Joanna Welsh: Joanna Welsh is Chief Risk Officer at Citadel. Joanna chairs Citadel’s Portfolio Committee and advises in determining risk tolerance levels for the strategies, businesses, and the funds as a whole. Prior to joining Citadel, Joanna was at Tudor Investment Corporation for 15 years, most recently serving as Chief Risk Officer. With more than 20 years of experience in financial services and risk management, she also held senior risk positions at Commerzbank and Nomura. Joanna began her career in the Financial Services division of Andersen Consulting. Joanna received a master’s and bachelor’s degree from Oxford University. Links: Website: https://www.citadel.com/our-teams/leadership/joanna-welsh/