Innovation, inclusion, intention: Advancing my career in IT

In the world of finance, finding a company that not only aligns with your values, but also fosters your growth and well-being is a rare and precious opportunity. In my experience, that place is Vanguard. My career at Vanguard has been a powerful testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to its mission and its crew. Filled with support, continuous growth, and new challenges, my journey has taken me from an investment professional to a technologist, following a non-traditional path that has been both transformative and deeply fulfilling.

Building a foundation

My career at Vanguard began as a client relationship associate, serving our personal investors. From the very first day, I was immersed in the company’s mission: to take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success.

This mission was not just a slogan; it was a guiding principle that shaped every interaction I had with clients. It instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and a thorough understanding of the impact our work has on people’s lives.

Expanding expertise

Over the years, I have had the privilege of rotating through various roles within Vanguard. Each new position has brought its own set of challenges and opportunities, allowing me to broaden my skill set and gain a holistic view of the organization. These rotations have been instrumental in my development and fostered a sense of adaptability and resilience that has served me well in my career.

One of the most significant transitions in my career was moving into information technology (IT). Despite not having a traditional tech background, Vanguard provided me with the training and support I needed to succeed. This move was a turning point, opening doors to new possibilities and allowing me to contribute to the company in a different and meaningful way.

My transition into IT was made possible by the intentional guidance and support from my mentors and leaders. Over the years, I was frequently called upon to step outside my primary role and contribute to technology projects, where I gained invaluable hands-on experience in technology implementation and deployment. I learned the importance of human-centered design in creating exceptional user experiences, and how to effectively translate business needs into technical solutions.

This blend of passion and growing expertise ultimately paved the way for my formal move into IT. Now, in my current role, I lead the development and support of internal applications that significantly enhance the success and productivity of our crew.

Devotion to inclusion

Vanguard’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is not just a policy, it is a lived experience. I have the honor of leading the IT Women in Leadership initiative, which is dedicated to ensuring that women in IT (and at Vanguard overall) feel a sense of belonging and support. This initiative reflects Vanguard’s broader commitment to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can reach their full potential.

One of the most memorable moments in my career was being promoted to a department head role in IT while 36 weeks pregnant. This promotion came on the heels of a previous pregnancy just a year prior, and it was a powerful affirmation of Vanguard’s commitment to its crew. It sent a clear message that the company values and supports its employees, regardless of their personal circumstances.

A promising path forward

Vanguard is a place where you can pursue your career ambitions without compromising your personal life. The company values the importance of maintaining a healthy work/life balance, recognizing that our personal lives are an integral part of who we are and how we perform at work.

This comprehensive approach to crew well-being is what has kept me at Vanguard for so many years. It is a place where you can grow both professionally and personally, and your contributions are valued and celebrated.

For me, the combination of Vanguard’s inspiring mission and the priority it places on its crew is what makes this organization truly special. The mission brought me here, but it is the genuine connections I have made and the support I have received that have kept me here. Whether it was through my early days on the phones, my rotations through different roles, or my move into IT—I have always felt that my growth and well-being were at the forefront of the company’s priorities.

-Ann D.

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