🎧 Listen to the full FEI Podcast episode: https://feipodcast.fireside.fm/176
Before becoming a CFO, Judy tested her resilience in an unconventional way — leaving her job to become a street vendor in China. Carrying inventory by bus, negotiating for space in crowded markets, and building a wholesale network from scratch, she learned firsthand how to persevere under pressure.
That entrepreneurial mindset continues to define her approach to financial leadership today.
Emotional Intelligence: A Competitive Advantage for CFOs
In today’s volatile business environment, technical expertise alone is not enough. Judy emphasizes that emotional intelligence is essential for financial leaders.
“If finance loses its cool, everyone does.”
Senior-level financial leaders set the tone during uncertainty — whether navigating economic shifts, AI transformation, or organizational change. The ability to pause, respond thoughtfully, and project calm confidence strengthens both teams and strategy.
The ROI of Professional Networks
Judy is a strong advocate for continuous engagement through FEI. Too often, executives prioritize networking only when facing career disruption. She stresses that proactive relationship-building, peer learning, and leadership development are strategic investments — not optional activities.
This philosophy aligns closely with the mission of the ICONS: Leaders in Finance event, where financial leaders gather on March 25 at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, California to exchange insights, expand connections, and elevate their impact.
Leading with Purpose
At its core, Judy’s story reflects what it means to be an ICON: resilience, service, mentorship, and a commitment to lifting others. Her journey reinforces that leadership legacy is built not just on performance — but on purpose.
🎧 Listen to the full conversation here: https://feipodcast.fireside.fm/176
Learn more about the 2026 ICONS: Leaders in Finance event:
https://www.financialexecutives.org/icons2026