New York – October [05] — Paula Polito, Client Strategy Officer of UBS Wealth Management Americas (WMA), was named for a third year to American Banker magazine's "25 Most Powerful Women in Finance" list. The 15th annual ranking recognizes women whose outstanding performance is driving change in the non-bank finance sector, including capital markets, asset management, investment banking and card networks.
"We are very fortunate to benefit from Paula's uncommon ability to understand investor sentiment today, as well as the way she anticipates the trends that will impact client preferences and behaviors in the future," said Tom Naratil, President Wealth Management Americas and UBS Americas. "She is a trusted colleague, an inspiring leader and someone who is truly dedicated to enhancing our Advisors' ability to serve clients holistically. I'm delighted to congratulate her on behalf of all my UBS colleagues."
Leading 400 employees and accountable for $160 billion in assets for the firm, Paula is focused on meeting the evolving needs of today's most sophisticated high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients. She is responsible for WMA's new Digital Strategy & Platforms organization, from framing the firm's overall digital strategy to managing the delivery of technology enhancements. Paula also heads Retirement Plan Consulting Services, Equity Plan Advisory Services, Institutional Consulting, Market Strategy & Analysis, Marketing and Communications. In addition, she chairs the UBS Client Strategy Office Forum, a group of 12 leaders from across all UBS regions, responsible for driving client focus across the firm.
Paula was initially recruited to UBS as WMA's Chief Marketing Officer in 2009. She was part of a "renewal team" charged with developing and executing a turnaround strategy to overcome WMA's challenges following the financial crisis. As part of the turnaround, Paula helped transform a product-oriented support function into an organization that is client-focused and Advisor-centric, contributing to record productivity and assets under management. In recognition of Paula's unique ability to identify client needs and help Financial Advisors meet them, the role of Client Strategy Officer was created for her in 2012.
Paula is a tireless mentor of the next generation of leaders, particularly women. She has consistently elevated women to senior roles, strengthening her own and UBS's commitment to diversity. In addition, she is heavily involved with charitable and community initiatives, industry associations and internal resource programs. She leads by example in giving back to the community, volunteering during the UBS Season of Service Campaign. Paula formerly served on the board of Boston College and is currently a Trustee Associate, as well as a member of the Executive Board of the Wall Street Council. In addition, she serves on the board of Harvard Medical School's Division of Women’s Health at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and is a supporter of the Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative.
