For our latest Member Spotlight, WIN proudly features Cristiane Barbosa, Advisor Support Consultant at Hartford Funds. Cristiane shares her journey with WIN and how it has influenced her career in the investment industry.
What inspired you to become a member of WIN, and what has kept you actively involved over the years?
My inspiration to join WIN came from its mission to foster growth, empowerment, and connection among women in the financial services industry. Samantha Lowry from Saorsa Consulting played a significant role in my decision to join WIN. Her support helped me realize the potential for growth and learning within the group. WIN has provided me with countless opportunities to share experiences, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. The broad network and the engaging events have kept me actively involved and grateful for new industry connections.
Could you share your journey into the financial services industry and how you’ve navigated your career path up to this point?
My path into the financial services industry is rooted in my entrepreneurial background and a deep commitment to personal growth. Moving to the United States 15 years ago without fluency in English was one of my first major challenges. Despite the language barrier, I managed to run my own business while pursuing a Finance degree from The Pennsylvania State University. This journey taught me resilience, time management, and adaptability. These skills, combined with my passion for problem-solving and building relationships, ultimately led me to transition into the asset and wealth management industry. Now, in my role at Hartford Funds, I find great fulfillment in supporting advisors and collaborating with the team to help drive success.
Reflecting on your experience, what key skills or attributes have you found universally applicable across industries and roles?
Adaptability and a growth mindset have been crucial in every role I have undertaken. Whether working in financial services, managing a cleaning service, or tutoring in mathematics, the ability to communicate effectively, solve problems creatively, and stay resilient in the face of challenges has been universally applicable and instrumental in achieving success.
Could you share a personal or professional accomplishment you’re particularly proud of and how it has shaped your career?
One of my proudest accomplishments is earning my Finance degree from The Pennsylvania State University while managing my own business and navigating on a completely new culture and language. This experience demonstrated my resilience and capacity to manage multiple responsibilities.
Another significant milestone was successfully transitioning from a vastly different industry into my current role at Hartford Funds. Being a part of such a reputable firm is an achievement I deeply value. It has allowed me to apply my strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in an entirely new context. These experiences have shaped my perspective and bolstered my confidence in navigating change and contributing meaningfully to the Hartford Funds family and the Advisor Support Team, where I play a role in equipping financial advisors, advisor consultants, and internal sales professionals with the knowledge and resources to deepen their expertise in the financial services industry.
Could you share a moment when you faced adversity in your career, how you overcame it, and any lessons learned?
Early in my career, managing my business while earning my Finance degree at The Pennsylvania State University presented a significant challenge. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship and academia, while also adjusting to a new culture and language, was a major test of my resilience and determination. One pivotal moment came when I joined an academic investment project that not only deepened my understanding of financial markets but also connected me with industry-aligned mentors and associates. Their guidance provided invaluable insights and support, helping me navigate challenges and refine my aspirations in the financial services industry. This experience taught me the value of prioritization, leveraging resources, and seeking mentorship to overcome adversity and achieve meaningful growth.
What I took away from this experience was the power of persistence and the importance of remaining flexible in the face of adversity. It also taught me to stay grounded in my long-term goals, even when immediate obstacles seemed overwhelming. This mindset has been crucial as I transitioned into my current role at Hartford Funds, where navigating a new industry and adapting to a corporate environment has built on those lessons and strengthened my ability to thrive in dynamic situations.
Can you discuss a memorable mentorship experience you’ve had as a mentor or mentee and the impact it had on your growth and development?
One of the most memorable mentorships experiences I have had was during my transition to the financial services industry and the process of securing my current role at Hartford Funds. I was fortunate to receive invaluable support, guidance, and mentorship from several key individuals within the WIN network and the industry. Their advice, encouragement, and belief in my potential not only helped me navigate during my transition into the financial services sector but also gave me the confidence to excel in every stage. This experience demonstrated the true value of having mentors who invest in your success and provide unwavering support. It has also reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and the impact of a strong professional network.
From the bottom of my heart, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to: Kathleen Depilis, Christina Kearney, Scott Kearney, Eric Lankin, Rob Lankin, Linda Beaulieu, Jay Beaulieu, Richard Hazzouri, Mary Ann Mayer, and the WIN network, including Samantha Lowry, Karen Greenberg, Carey Burke, Maxine Dotseth, and Cecily Keller.
Do you have a favorite WIN event? If so, what made it so special/memorable?
My first WIN event, the summer social, stands out as the most memorable. It marked my introduction to a vibrant and supportive community that truly celebrates diversity and innovation. What made the experience even more impactful was the warm and welcoming nature of everyone I met. WIN members who I had just met introduced me to other members who offered industry knowledge and further networking connections. The thought-provoking discussions and the chance to connect with industry leaders left a lasting impression, strengthening my sense of belonging and the shared purpose within the network.
What emerging topics or industry trends would you like WIN to address in future events, and why are they important to you?
I would love to see WIN addressing the integration of artificial intelligence in investment strategies and its implications for advisors and clients. As technology reshapes our industry, understanding its impact will be critical to staying ahead and providing value in an evolving landscape.WIN’s Member Spotlight showcases the diverse and experienced talent within our organization. For our latest Member Spotlight, WIN proudly features Cristiane Barbosa, Advisor Support Consultant at Hartford Funds. Cristiane shares her journey with WIN and how it has influenced her career in the investment industry.