Profession: Banker. Organization: US Trust International Bank. Title: Non-Executive Director, Chairman & CEO. Alma mater: University of Maryland. Languages spoken: English and Spanish.
Current project: Opening a new bank headquartered in the US Virgin Islands. Recent recognition: Nominated to join the board of directors for a public stock company. Latest contribution to others: Advocate for children with special needs and work on providing housing for seniors, military veterans, and people with disabilities. Recent unique acquisition: A multifamily apartment complex in Washington, DC.
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Loyal. What is your greatest joy? My family. What is your guilty pleasure? I go out to eat way too often. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? I can’t carry a tune, so singers. How do you relieve stress? Physical activity, working out, and playing sports. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? A great beach.
What was your first paying job? Newspaper route. What was your favorite college course? Psychology. What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Football, basketball, and baseball. We played every single day. What movie have you repeatedly watched? Pulp Fiction. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Photos of my family. What is your go-to source of news and information? Apple News.
What is your big idea?
Build a bank on the global stage and take the company public within three years.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Develop a fintech banking platform that’s user-friendly and cost-effective. What message do you want to send out into the world? Embrace diversity and inclusion while first respecting each other’s sovereign rights.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? It’s a Wonderful Life. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My grandmother. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A professional athlete. What advice would you give your younger self? Don’t sweat the small stuff.
Personal motto: Do to others as you would have them do to you. Favorite quote: “When opportunity meets preparation, it often creates the byproduct many people consider to be luck” (Seneca).
