Director, Marketing and Communications
S&P Capital IQ
New York City
Age: 38
Holly Lisette Washington describes her responsibilities as director and global head of Investment Banking and Private Equity Marketing for S&P Capital IQ very simply: ?I market the firm?s products and services to investment banking and private equity businesses.? She adds, ?When I started in June 2011, it was a new role and a unique opportunity as the group essentially operated like a startup within S&P/McGraw Hill.?
Washington previously was global head of marketing and communications for J.P. Morgan Prime Services. She also worked with Orrick, Herrington and Sutcliffe; Thomson Financial; and Lehman Brothers ? all renowned financial services companies. She holds a bachelor?s degree in communications studies and marketing and a master?s in media, culture and communication from New York University. She credits her numerous mentors, including her grandmother, Inez Harris, with teaching her the importance of acting with confidence, delegating tasks, looking at each day as a new opportunity to be the best, not being afraid to ask for help, taking risks, understanding that no one is irreplaceable and finding your niche. She learned a few lessons on her own as well: ?Set high goals, be honest, never say no and work with people who share your passion for doing their best.??
Community work is very important to Washington.?She explains why: ?It is important to understand one?s own personal success equation ? what you need in order to feel happy and motivated with respect to work. This takes a great deal of vigilance and focus, and I work at it every day.? She is a S&P Capital IQ mentor and volunteers with Women?s Bond Club, the Robin Hood Foundation and the American Cancer Society. ?I believe corporate philanthropy can save lives and change fates. I firmly believe education prepares one to have options and again, can help break the cycle of poverty,? she says.
Fun Facts
Favorite singer: Ella Fitzgerald
Favorite author: James Baldwin
First job: AIG underwriter
