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Legacy of Leadership: Women at GM Financial

In celebration of International Women’s Day and National Women’s History Month, we’re honored to recognize the incredible work of the women who have dedicated their skills to serving GM Financial and its customers.

This year's theme for International Women's Day (IWD) is #AccelerateAction. At GM Financial, we're proud to empower women through initiatives like the Women's Inspiration Network (WIN), which is dedicated to supporting and uplifting women across our organization.

To gain an even deeper insight into how we as a company can move forward into a brighter future, we spoke with Dawn Peters (SVP Portfolio Management), Jennifer Cannefax (SVP Enterprise Project Management Office), Shannon Pasternak (SVP Global Real Estate and Workplace Services) and Stephanie Casto (EVP Chief Compliance and Privacy Officer).

What does #AccelerateAction mean to you personally or professionally?

Jennifer: Professionally, it reminds me to take intentional action to consider how I can improve equality on my own team. Personally, it reminds me to raise both my son and daughter to exude qualities of equality and inclusion.
Stephanie: It’s a call to action to be bold and confident in your positions and ideas and to respect others for doing the same. It’s also a reminder to me that when I see an opportunity for improvement, to seek out and be a part of the solution.

How can companies help accelerate the goal of empowering and developing the careers of women in the workplace?

Dawn: It’s imperative that we provide development opportunities for all of our team members, especially to those at the early stages of their careers. We’ll get better business outcomes and also position our people to be ready to compete for future opportunities.
Shannon: We need to ensure we’re continuing the discussion and creating forums for women to be able to talk through the challenges they might be facing. We also need to continue providing mentoring and networking opportunities to help build insight and confidence. 
Stephanie: As leaders, I think career pathing discussions with our team members (men and women alike) are important conversations to have. They help our team members intentionally think about career goals and aspirations, which keeps them motivated to strive for success and further their development.

What legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of women leaders?

Jennifer: I hope that women leaders can own with pride that empathy is a superpower. You can exude care, consideration and other emotionally intelligent strengths while still driving results and holding your team to high standards.
Dawn: I want our team to increasingly see that women are at the table when decisions are being made. I also hope my career increases the visibility of women in leadership for others.
Shannon: I’ve always reminded myself that balancing work and family is something I’m very proud of. I want to inspire and show other women that it’s possible. You can be a leader and have a family, care for a family member or whatever your personal situation may be. It's key to build a system of support that you can lean on while balancing your priorities. 

At GM Financial, we're committed to highlighting the impact women have in the world every day. This International Women's Day and Women's History Month, we commend the accomplishments of the women in our workforce.

By Lincoln Edgemon, GM Financial

Lincoln learned how to drive in a GMC Sierra and has been a fan of large vehicles ever since. She's committed to clarity in communication that helps others on their journey toward financial literacy.