In a few words, what does being a “Trailblazer” mean to you, and how did your path into wealth management begin?
When I started in a support role in the early 90’s, there were limited options for women in the financial services industry. But the women who stepped out of the standard roles broke the glass ceiling to open opportunities for me and future generations of women. I feel I’m standing on their shoulders and continuing to break glass for the incredible women coming behind me.
When you first entered the industry, what did the landscape look like for women, and what early lessons still shape how you lead today?
There were very few women financial advisors or leadership roles available to women. Most were tied to support, operations or HR positions. Instead of hiding these skills, I embraced them as I realized I had knowledge that many of my peers didn’t possess. Critical thinking, problem-solving, strategic execution and emotional intelligence were not being discussed in that time, but the lessons I’ve learned developed these important skillsets in my career.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and what mindset or skills helped you push through and keep going?
I think role bias was an issue. In fact, an advisor told me once early on that I would be in a support role for life – there was no career. I later received incredible support from a senior leader who gave me a seat at the table as he recognized my skillsets were needed to lead an organization.
Where are you today in your career, and what unique perspectives do you believe women bring to wealth management and leadership?
Today, I’m now the COO and Managing Partner of one of the largest independent firms in the industry which is a source of both pride and humility. I believe women bring a level of emotional intelligence along with strategic execution that is unique and very much needed.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of women in wealth management, and what advice would you give to the next generation of trailblazers?
I’m excited that opportunities continue to expand. I don’t see women are limited in what they can achieve, which is incredible. My advise is to identify the talents you possess and be passionate about serving others with those talents. Keeping a perspective on what is most important in life has helped keep me grounded as a businesswoman and wife/mother.
More About Emily Fletcher: Emily Fletcher is a founder, COO, and board member of OpenArc Corporate Advisory. She brings more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, with a career defined by operational excellence, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to client service. Prior to co-founding OpenArc, Emily was a senior partner of the nationally recognized GCIAS team at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, where she oversaw the administrative and operational strategy for a team of 150 professionals serving corporate executives and their families.
At OpenArc, Emily helps guide the firm’s strategic direction and culture, drawing on her extensive experience to support both individual and institutional clients. She believes that every day presents an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, a philosophy that continues to shape her leadership.
Emily earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She and her husband, Andy, live in the metro Atlanta area and are proud parents of three adult children. A two-time breast cancer survivor and mother of a St. Jude’s survivor, Emily is a passionate advocate for pediatric cancer awareness. She actively supports organizations such as Thumbs UP! Mission and works to increase funding and visibility for families and warriors facing these battles.
