50 Leading Women: Elizabeth Sullivan
In honor and celebration of our Women’s Division‘s 50th Anniversary, we will be spotlighting 50 Leading Women making an impact, raising their voice, and leading the next generation of women in the workforce and Plano community.
Introducing, Elizabeth Sullivan, Wealth Advisor, for Murphy & Sylvest Wealth Management. Originally from Tampa, Florida, Elizabeth graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and a minor in Spanish from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. Liz began her career at Enterprise Rent-A-Car where she worked her way up from a management trainee to becoming an area manager in 2018. She decided to make a career change in 2020, following her passion of helping others reach their financial goals by becoming a financial advisor for Ameriprise Financial Services. Liz joined Murphy & Sylvest Wealth Management in 2022 where she focuses on helping individuals and families evaluate their present financial situation, refine their financial goals, and develop a plan to achieve those goals
In her free time, Liz serves as the Vice President for For the Love of the Lake, a nonprofit organization that focuses on keeping White Rock Lake clean for Dallas residents, and was the previous years’ Treasurer for the Plano Chamber of Commerce Women’s Division. Liz recently kicked off her year as the President of the 2023 Plano Chamber of Commerce Women’s Division Committee, allowing her to have a seat on our Board of Directors. We look forward to witnessing the impact her leadership, creativity, and commitment to Women’s Division will have on the overall mission of the Plano Chamber.
1. Do you remember your first time attending one of our Women’s Division events? Tell us about that experience and what made you want to come back.
Yes! I was on the hunt for a strong group of women to network with and I just wasn’t finding it. I went to breakfast with a friend, and she mentioned Plano WD. The first Women’s Division event I attended was electric. Women from all industries, and all walks of life came together to support each other both personally and professionally. The connections I made went far beyond a monthly luncheon. I built relationships and friendships that I keep today. I am honored to serve as the Chair for Women’s Division in 2023 and cannot wait for what’s to come!
2. How can women develop their leadership skills in the workforce?
Take on roles and projects that challenge you – take the risk. Be sure to solicit productive feedback from your colleagues and coworkers. If you don’t get feedback, you won’t be able to grow and learn from your actions. “Opportunities do not float like clouds in the sky. They’re attached to people. If you’re looking for an opportunity, you’re really looking for a person.” – Ben Casnocha
3. What has been one of your biggest joys as a leader?
It always brings me joy to see others succeed. As a leader, when you build a team and they see success in their own careers, and their life, that is the best reward.
4. What advice would you give your 25-year-old self?
Protect your time and your priorities. People will ask you to do things, participate in events, and attend functions. If you say yes, then complain that you’re too overwhelmed or stressed, it’s your own fault. Time is the most precious resource. Learn to say no earlier and prioritize the things that matter most to you.
5. What advice can you give to the next generation of female leaders?
It’s no secret that there’s a gender pay gap in the USA today. From the 2020 census, women make .83 cents for every dollar a man makes. The good news is the pay gap has narrowed over the years, but we still have work to do. What can the next generation do to help? Ask for more, know your worth. Avoid dead end jobs. Invest early and invest often.
