A Georgia native with roots in St. Simons Island, Elisabeth Anderson has lived in Atlanta for over two decades, steadily rising in the ranks of banking operations to occupy multiple executive roles. Today, Elisabeth serves as the Senior Vice President and Atlanta Private Banking Director at Paragon Bank in Buckhead. We caught up with her to hear about other Atlanta women who inspire her, personal finance myths she loves to debunk, and more. Get to know this inspiring FACE of Atlanta!
When were you first drawn to banking? Have you always had an affinity for numbers?
While numbers have always intrigued me, my interest in banking began to solidify during the early part of my career at Wachovia. I found myself captivated by the intricate world of finance and the opportunities it presented to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.
Banking, to me, is so much more than numbers; it’s about trust and relationships. Building trust with clients and fostering strong relationships has been a cornerstone of my career, and it’s what continues to drive my passion for this industry.
Tell us a bit about the path that led you into your Senior Vice President and Director roles.
I started off in branch operations, assisting clients with opening accounts and service needs. Over time, I diversified my experience by working in various departments, including commercial and private banking.
Throughout my journey, I prioritized exceptional customer service, which allowed me to cultivate strong relationships, which were pivotal to my success … I was recommended for leadership training, where I discovered my passion for education and mentorship. This fueled my desire to grow as a leader and contribute to the development of others.
Today, as a Senior Vice President and Director, I continue to apply the principles that have guided me to success throughout my career. I lead my team with a focus on the core values that have shaped my journey: prioritizing exceptional customer service and delivering concierge-level banking services to our clients.
What does a typical week look like, and what do you love to do when you’re not working?
During the week, you’ll find me deeply engaged with clients, helping them navigate their wealth challenges and leading my team to success. But when I’m not tied up with work, I’m all about indulging in my passions.
I spend time volunteering with local organizations, flipping through interior design magazines for inspiration, and taking leisurely strolls around Bobby Jones with my family, including our two doodles. I’m also a big fan of staying active, whether it’s sweating it out at Orange Theory or getting outdoors for some hiking or gardening in my backyard.
Many think of finance as a male-dominated field. Do you find that to be the case? And if so, have you seen a shift in recent years?
While finance has historically been male-dominated, I’ve witnessed a positive shift in recent years, with more opportunities opening up for women in leadership roles. I’m proof of this shift!
What’s some terrible personal finance advice floating around that you’d love to debunk?
One common myth I’d like to debunk is the notion that one must have substantial wealth to start investing. In reality, it’s crucial to start early, regardless of income level, to build a secure financial future.
Another misconception is that not everyone needs a financial plan β I firmly believe that planning is the cornerstone of financial success. Every financial decision you make has ripple effects throughout your entire financial picture … By understanding how each aspect of your finances interconnects, you can make informed decisions that align with your long-term goals and aspirations.
What are your favorite spots to eat and shop around Atlanta?
When it comes to dining, I absolutely adore Rumi’s for its exquisite flavors, Valenza for its cozy ambiance, and Flower Child for its vibrant and healthy menu options. As for shopping, you’ll often find me browsing the latest trends and unique finds at Avalon or exploring the design inspiration at ADAC.
Name another woman in Atlanta who inspires you, and tell us why.
Another woman in Atlanta who inspires me is Sara Blakely. As the founder of Spanx, Sara’s resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit have led her to revolutionize the undergarment industry. Despite facing numerous setbacks, she persisted and turned Spanx into a global phenomenon.
What truly inspires me is her unwavering belief in herself, her commitment to empowering women, and her dedication to giving back through initiatives like the Sara Blakely Foundation. Sara’s story reminds me of the power of resilience and the importance of using success to positively impact others.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to stay true to myself and lead with kindness. As a female leader who values authenticity and genuine connections, I’ve learned that being sincere and empathetic fosters trust and collaboration. By understanding and respecting the experiences of others, I can create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed.
This advice has not only guided me in my professional journey but has also enriched my personal relationships and brought authenticity to everything I do.
Lightning round!
Three things you can’t live without: Our dogs, a fancy espresso, and my passport
Favorite vacation destination: Antigua, without a doubt
Book(s) on your bedside table: The Complete Works of Florence Scovel Shinn and Atomic Habits by James Clear
Favorite guilty pleasure: Indulging in a luxurious spa day
Go-to birthday gift to give: A beautifully curated arrangement piece from Boxwoods Gardens & Gifts β guaranteed to impress
This FACES of Atlanta installment was made possible by Paragon Bank. All photography provided by Elisabeth Anderson.
This article contains product affiliate links.Β As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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Southern women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them over at our FACES of the South archives!Β
