Invesco Internal Career Moves – Shifting from sales to strategy
Invesco Internal Career Moves: Shifting from sales to strategy
Q: Christine, tell us how you’ve grown your career at Invesco?
A: In November 2019, I made a significant career pivot, swapping my sales role at an industrial manufacturer for a position on the internal sales desk at Invesco as a Divisional Associate. I dove headfirst into getting licensed and learning everything I could about Invesco and the asset management industry. A year later, I moved into the role of Internal Market Consultant, managing a West Coast sales territory and honing my understanding of Invesco’s diverse investment products. After two years, I embraced a new challenge as the Associate Director of Americas Business Strategy and Reporting in the Office of the Americas Chief Operating Officer, a role I currently hold.
Q: What guided your shift from sales to strategy and reporting?
A: I was able to leverage my industry know-how and my understanding of Invesco’s products and sales to tackle problems and implement strategic initiatives across our Americas business. Being immersed in strategy and reporting has not only broadened my network within Invesco, but it also pushes me to think outside the box every single day. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the dynamic learning environment and the opportunity to take on diverse roles during my short tenure here.
Q: How has changing roles impacted you?
A: While the word ‘change’ might be scary for some, I try to view it as an opportunity. Reflecting on my life, I realize those periods of change have significantly shaped the person I am today. When I joined Invesco, little did I know that a global pandemic would soon force me to work from home, just a few months into my training. The prospect of learning the industry and managing client responsibilities on my own was intimidating. However, rising to this unexpected challenge helped me establish a successful reputation and laid a solid foundation for future promotions. In my current role, change and challenge is a constant. I have been assigned projects outside my expertise, which have challenged me to grow, learn, and adapt. Interestingly, these projects end up being my favorites.
Q: What has helped you navigate the challenges and changes of transitioning to your current role?
A: Transitioning from a sales-focused role to a strategy role presented a unique challenge: moving from a more prescriptive role to one that’s more ambiguous. As a type A personality, I initially struggled when I didn’t have an immediate solution, perceiving it as a weakness. However, I learned to view problem-solving as a consultative process where solutions often emerge from actively listening and understanding the problem from the perspectives of clients, internal partners, and colleagues.
What inspired you to grow in your career at Invesco?
A: Participating in the Internal Sales-sponsored Leadership Apprenticeship Program (LAP), for those interested in future leadership opportunities, sparked my desire to transition within Invesco to a role that would further develop my leadership skills and creativity.
How has Invesco supported your career journey?
A: Invesco has supported my career journey through insightful feedback from my mentors and manager, and through mentorship programs like the Invesco Women’s Network iMentor program. These opportunities have helped me set career goals and chart my career path. The mentorship has extended beyond the program and remains a valuable source of support and growth.
I’m incredibly grateful for the individuals in my career and life who provide feedback and help me recognize skills and growth opportunities that I might otherwise overlook. My manager on the internal sales desk, Keith Myers, played a crucial role in identifying my skills and potential, enabling my transition from sales to strategy.
As I progress in my career, these mentorships and conversations with past and current managers will continue to be something I cherish and seek out.
What’s next on the horizon for you?
A: I’m currently pursuing my MBA at the Georgia Institute of Technology, with an anticipated graduation in December 2025. While I’m uncertain about the exact path my career at Invesco will take next, I’m confident that the knowledge and skills I’m acquiring through my MBA will help shape my next role.