Yoselyn Melendez

Underwriter, Republic Business Credit

40 Under 40 Category: Underwriting

Yoselyn is an underwriter at Republic Business Credit, where she structures and underwrites factoring and asset-based lending facilities. Yoselyn began her career as a member of Republic’s operations team. She soon transitioned to credit and underwriting, where she works with both the business development and client management teams to support new clients. Yoselyn is an active member of the Young Leadership Council. 

Yoselyn is graduate of Loyola University New Orleans. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, reading and cheering on her favorite sports teams.

What is the best professional advice you have been given and how have you implemented it? 

The best advice I have received is to keep asking questions. I began my career with no background in finance. Fortunately, I was surrounded by a very experienced team willing to impart their knowledge. My co-workers at every level of the company were invaluable to my growth. I was able to learn from their successes and mistakes. The great part about my job is that no one deal is the same and there are always opportunities to learn new things. There truly is something to learn from everyone. Having a great sounding board allowed me to build upon my skills and advance within the company. I believe it is important to not be afraid to voice any inquiries you may have and learn from the advice and knowledge given to you. This form of collaboration not only increases effectiveness in a workspace, but also contributes to the creation and longevity of an innovative and enterprising environment. 

How do you define a good leader? 

A good leader is defined not by how they see themselves, but by how others see them, their actions and their words. These individuals can see the important qualities in those around them. Good leaders are able to foster an atmosphere in which those around them are able to reach their greatest potential. A good leader challenges their team and pushes them to seek new solutions. They embrace the diversity within their teams and encourage contribution from all levels of the business. 

How would you encourage young professionals to become more involved in their community or volunteer? How have these activities outside of work helped shape your professional life? 

I would encourage people to get involved in their communities and find a cause, not just one they are passionate about, but one in which they can use their skills effectively and beneficially.   Not only is getting involved in your community both personally and professionally rewarding, it is also a great opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds whom you may not normally cross paths with. I’ve been really fortunate to meet great friends and professional contacts through these activities. Oftentimes, we find ourselves meeting the same circles at networking events.  Getting out into the community or volunteering provides an occasion in which we can not only introduce ourselves to different groups but we can also have the opportunity to work with underrepresented businesses in our field. 

What advice would you give on how to self-advocate? 

My advice would be to believe in your skill set and knowledge. This admittedly is still a work in progress for me! We at times have the tendency to be deferential or add qualifiers such as “maybe” or “if that makes sense…” when speaking with those who are older or in higher positions. It’s important to share your thoughts and ideas while still being respectful. Take pride in your abilities and your work. Your contribution is more valuable than you think.