Donna N. Smith, executive vice president, head of corporate banking, Associated Bank, was named to The 25 Women to Watch list as part of The Most Powerful Women in Banking for 2014 by American Banker at a dinner and awards ceremony on October 9 in New York City. This annual ranking evaluates each candidate on her impact at her company, on the industry and in the community, on leadership skills in the face of professional challenges, and on qualities such as innovation.
Smith started with Associated in June 2010 as executive vice president, commercial banking director and was promoted to her current position in June 2011. She has more than 30 years of commercial banking experience.
“We are proud to have Donna as part of the Associated team and also proud of her being recognized with this prestigious recognition,” said Philip B. Flynn, president and CEO, Associated Bank. “Her commitment to empowering women in the workplace and mentoring colleagues is evident through her actions and the growth of women in executive positions.”
Smith has become a vocal champion of diversity and is in the midst of establishing an internal credit training program. Her goal is for at least 30 percent of the candidates to be women. She is also working closely with the executive committee to raise the percentage of females in top jobs at Associated. Women hold 27 percent of its executive positions now and Smith aims to increase that to 30 percent within a year.
“American Banker honored Donna as one of The Most Powerful Women in Banking for her leadership in the industry and superior management skills in the face of business challenges,” said American Banker Magazine Executive Editor Bonnie McGeer. “Her professional influence and contributions to her community at large continue to distinguish The Most Powerful Women in Banking list as one of the most prestigious awards in the profession.”
