A pioneer and highly-respected leader in the Banking industry for more than four decades, Miriam Lopez serves as Executive Vice President and Private Banking Group Leader for Professional Bank. As one of the first Hispanic women in South Florida to rise to the top of the male-dominated field, she proved her ability at national, state and local levels, leading by example to help close the gender inequality gap in the financial services sector.
Favorite quote: “The elevator to success is out of order. You’ll have to use the stairs… one step at a time.” — Joe Girard
Fun fact: I was always afraid of heights so I went skydiving to conquer my fear.
How do you unwind after a long day of work? Visiting with my four grandkids. At 5, 6, 13 and 14, they’re a handful, however they always manage to put a smile on my face and forget about whatever stresses the work day threw my way.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them? Being named CEO of a Bank as a young female in her 30s and not being taken seriously. I overcame it by working hard to obtain the trust and respect of my clients and peers.
What has been the most monumental moment of your career thus far? Being named the first female Chair of the Florida Banker’s Association.
Who are your role models? Nathan Rok and my mother
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten? Never let your ego get in the way of your job (Nathan Rok)
What advice would you give a young woman at the start of her career? Work hard, stand by your values and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve something. You may fall 100 times but will get up 101 times stronger and smarter.
How does being a woman has impacted your career? Lots of juggling! As a woman, you have to balance a career, being a wife, mother and still find time for yourself. It’s tough and priorities shift at different points in your life, but you make it work.
