Mandi (Cogsdill) Lyons, Senior Vice President, Financial Planning & Analysis at PIMCO, won Rising Star at Markets Media Group’s 2023 Women in Finance (U.S.) Awards.
What was your reaction to winning the award?
When I first heard that I had won the Rising Star award, it was a moment of disbelief and immense gratitude. The nomination itself was a surprise, and seeing my name alongside such accomplished and talented women was an honor in itself and I did not expect to win. The award is a recognition I deeply appreciate for the acknowledgement of the hard work, dedication, and passion I’ve put into my career in finance. It’s also a reminder of the incredible support I’ve received from my colleagues, mentors, and family.
What have been the main drivers of your success?
One of the key drivers to my success has been my openness to new opportunities, which at times has included a proactive approach in seeking them out. I’ve always believed in stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges. While taking on new responsibilities can be daunting, each new experience has helped me broaden my skill set, expand my professional network, and gain a deeper understanding of the finance industry. I’ve learned that growth often comes from discomfort, and I’m grateful for every opportunity that has pushed me to grow.
What keeps you motivated?
What keeps me motivated is the constant challenge and the collaborative environment in which I work. I thrive in a setting where I am constantly learning and growing, and where teamwork is valued. I am fortunate to work with high-performing, collaborative colleagues who inspire me every day. Their dedication, creativity, and passion for what they do is contagious and drives me to strive for excellence in my own work.
Who have been the main influences in your career?
The most significant influences in my career have been the senior leaders I have had the privilege to work with. From the start of my career, I have been fortunate to have mentors who have taken the time to guide and coach me. Their leadership has opened doors for me and shaped the leader I aspire to be. They’ve taught me the importance of integrity, resilience, and adaptability in leadership. Their faith in my abilities has given me the confidence to take on new challenges and strive for success.
What subjects interested you the most during your college days?
I’ve always had a love for learning and school, so I pretty much enjoyed all of my classes in college! I believe that every subject offers something valuable and contributes to a well-rounded education. Whether it was finance and accounting courses, which laid the foundation for my career in finance, or philosophy, which taught me critical thinking and ethical reasoning, every class has enriched my understanding of the world and helped lay a foundation for my career.
What do you like least about the world of finance?
While I thoroughly enjoy the world of finance, there are times when I wish there were more opportunities to engage the creative side of my brain. However, I believe that creativity can be applied in any field, including finance. Whether it’s finding innovative solutions to complex financial problems or developing creative strategies for financial growth, there’s always room for creativity in finance.
How has your career been enhanced by exposure to diverse people, places, or experiences?
Early in my career, I had the opportunity to work and live in London. This experience broadened my perspective and allowed me to work with people from diverse backgrounds. It enhanced my emotional intelligence and understanding of social interactions, which has been invaluable in my career and personal life. Working in a different culture taught me the importance of adaptability, empathy, and self-awareness of your own (unconscious) cultural biases and assumptions. It also gave me a global perspective on finance, which has enriched my understanding of the industry.
What’s something you’re really proud of and why?
In the past four years, I became a mother to two wonderful children. Balancing my career and motherhood has been a challenge, but it has also honed my time management skills and helped me focus on critical priorities and high value tasks. I am proud of the balance I have achieved between my career and being an involved mother. It’s a constant juggling act, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I hope to set an example for my children that you can pursue a fulfilling career and be a dedicated parent.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
When I started my career, I had a lot of anxiety over where I would be in 5 years and whether I was doing all of the “right” things to advance my career. I was worried about the future, trying to map out my path and control every aspect of it. However, I have learned that life can take unexpected turns. It’s important to be intentional with your choices, but also to be open to change and for your life to take an unexpected course. I don’t have a specific destination in mind for the next five years. Instead, I have a direction. I want to continue growing both personally and professionally. I want to keep learning, to keep challenging myself, and to keep contributing to my field in meaningful ways.
What’s your advice to the next generation of women in finance?
My advice to the next generation of women in finance is to find something you truly enjoy doing. Time is priceless and your happiness is fundamental to your career and personal life. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and seize new opportunities. Your career is a journey, not a destination (cliché, I know!). It’s about finding fulfillment in what you do, learning from your experiences, and making a positive impact that you’re proud of.
