TC Wilde

Senior Underwriter, Sterling National Bank

Biography:

Before starting in the ABL industry, TC studied business administration and received a Bachelor Degree from Our Lady of Holy Cross College and a Master Degree from Loyola University.  TC’s approximate 20 years of ABL experience includes progressive positions in field examination, portfolio management and underwriting.  Through these various roles, she has gained experience in structuring and monitoring different types of loans including hard-core or “old school” ABL, ABL lite, cash flow and unitranche facilities.  She has also gained experience in working with different managers, management styles, cultures and credit appetites.  By working at various institutions, both in the regulated and non-regulated world, TC has been exposed to a wide range of companies, industries and situations including acquisitions, divestures, dividend recaps and distressed situations in the US and Canada.  What does all of this say about TC? It says she is a dynamic, energetic and well-rounded employee who’s looking forward to continued growth.  And, when she’s not applying or developing her ABL skills, she’s usually at the gym, watching a movie or traveling.  If you’re in Spain this summer or Peru this fall, you just might spot her.

What advice would you offer to women just starting out in the industry?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. In fact, ask lots of questions.  ABL, like most industries, has its own vernacular – filled with acronyms, abbreviations, slogans, etc.  As a new AE, I kept a notebook with me. I’d write down everything I read or heard that I didn’t understand - acronyms, words, loan document sections, expressions, concepts, comments, anything, really.  I’d discuss each one with my team leader during our scheduled weekly meeting. Yes, I scheduled a weekly 30-minute meeting with my manager to discuss my list.  Naturally, over time, the meetings were needed less often. And, those weekly meetings became monthly meetings, then quarterly meetings.  Until eventually, I no longer needed the meetings.  I still appreciate those blocks of time I demanded from my manager. 

What do you know now that you wish you knew in the beginning of your career?

Have fun!  Seriously.  Allow your personality to shine through.  Because, it does just that – it shines! I, like many women, hid my personality at the beginning of my career for fear of being perceived as less professional.  I realize this may seem risky but people are drawn to sincerity.  So, be true to yourself!   

What kind of role has mentoring and/or sponsorship played in your career?

Mentoring has played a significant role in my career.  Who’s hasn’t, right?  I mean, who’s born understanding ABL principles?  I don’t think anyone is.  Navigating through your first examination, portfolio, underwriting or liquidation can seem daunting.  Always remember, others have survived.  Learn from their experiences.  If you’re fortunate enough to work at an institution that assigns mentors, use the program.  Be engaging.  Recognize that you’re being given a competitive advantage over others without an assigned mentor.  If you don’t have an assigned mentor, don’t fret.  Choose your own. Align yourself with a senior co-worker.  Or two or three.   Recognize that everyone has something to teach you.  Don’t forget that.  And, don’t forget that everyone includes you.  Be the mentor for someone junior to you too.  I’ve learned that I enjoy sharing knowledge as much as I’ve learned gaining knowledge.  And, a well-trained staff is the most powerful asset an asset-based lender has.

What do you think the industry could do to attract and retain the best and the brightest today?

ABL deals are specialized.  Sometimes so specialized that ABL divisions keep them in-house and away from pools of credit analysts.  Pools filled with fresh young minds eager to learn.  If these bright young minds were exposed to our deals, they’d see that we offer creative and flexible financing solutions tailored specifically to each customer.  External opportunities include social media advertising and career fairs held at colleges/universities.