Voice of Experience: Mary Cecola, CIO Asset Management Business Solutions, Deutsche Bank

By Melissa J. Anderson (New York City)

“I started my career as an Assembler programmer 23 years ago and wanted to be technically focused, but discovered that I had a innate talent for leadership and management,” explained Mary Cecola, Head of Asset Management Business Solutions at Deutsche Bank.

For 20 years, Cecola has built her career in the Technology space. She has relied on her interest in building strong teams to keep moving forward. “There have been so many moments throughout my career – so many challenges – that made a difference. And there have been a myriad of accomplishments with my team,” she said.

Building a Career as a Team

Cecola began her career at Kemper Financial Services in Chicago right out of college, which was purchased by Zurich Financial Services in 1996 and in turn sold to Scudder Stevens Clark a few years thereafter. Deutsche Bank purchased Scudder Stevens in 2002. “So in a way, I’ve been with the same company for twenty three years, but you can’t say it’s the same company. It’s really changed from a regional mutual fund company to a global investment bank,” Cecola said.

From a developer to project manager, Cecola moved into area management. She has worked to support all areas of the Asset Management organization from a technology perspective. She is now Head of Asset Management for Technology.

“Taking over the Asset Management technology function after so many years in the organization, I’m looking at it with a new set of eyes. We’re redefining the way we approach IT and formulating our future game plan.”

She continued, “As far as optimizing IT, I find it very challenging. There is a lot to accomplish; getting the right teams together, the right players. I do find it energizing.”

Building Stronger Teams

“I’m really energized by developing people and building strong teams” Cecola said.

She mentioned Deutsche Bank has many programs centered on developing individuals. Additionally, she said, the Bank is interested in further professionalizing individuals. “Whereas we used to approach people to be jack-of-all-trades types, our programs are really investing in developing individual talents.”

“I do believe that as a manager, you’re only as good as your people. When you help create a team with a wonderful culture, you’ll be more successful and you’ll enjoy your career more.”

Learning to Present Herself as a Leader

Cecola recalled losing a promotion to a colleague earlier in her career – and she went to the hiring manager and asked why. “It was a powerful conversation,” she said. She was alerted to things like executive presence and participation during meetings.”

One example, she said, is during meetings thinking about whether she’s asking a question or making a statement. “If you feel a certain way, just state it as a fact.”

She continued, “A meeting is the same as a presentation. You have to prepare for it.”

“Look around and figure out which people inspire you, and learn from them,” she added.

Advice for Women

Cecola advises young women beginning their careers to learn as much as they can as quickly as possible. Then, she said, “Think about your career early. If you want a job, let your boss know and seek out advice on how to get it.”

As women become more senior, she said, “If you’re passed over for a job, do have a non-confrontational conversation about why, and use that advice – don’t discount it. Realize how people view you.”

Deutsche Bank is highly invested in diversity, especially gender diversity, she said. Cecola he sponsors a group of managing director level women in global technology in the Americas. The Bank also offers coaching and mentoring, and hosts the annual Women on Wall Street Conference.

“There are a lot of opportunities to develop your skills. You have to seize them and use them to move forward,” she said.

In Her Personal Time

“My son is sixteen – raising a teenager is a hobby in itself,” Cecola joked. “But my husband and I work with a group called Feed My Starving Children.” Cecola also enjoys horseback riding and taking care of her three dogs.