September Member Spotlight

Andrea Greene Wells

What 3 pieces of advice would you give women in this industry?

Remember that the only constant in our industry is change. Strength, flexibility and focus will help you adapt.

Self-care is essential. Put on your own oxygen mask first so that you can rise to life’s inevitable challenges - and then you’ll be well-equipped to assist others.

Business is business. Although personal connection is important, don’t take things personally. If necessary, force yourself to step outside of the situation to keep it in perspective.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

Creating SWIFS from Erin Linehan’s vision has been the most fulfilling accomplishment of my career. The challenge appealed to my entrepreneurial spirit and met my desire to bring about positive change in the lives of other women. We took a chance, and the women of SWIFS exceeded our expectations in every way.

What has been your greatest professional challenge?

Defending CDO equity tranche cases as a young lawyer in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis has been one of my most significant professional challenges. I met with high-level witnesses across the country about the very complex issues of CDO underwriting and origination, and I worked tirelessly to demonstrate that this girl from Alabama was worth her salt.

SWIFS Member Sara Soto spoke at the Practising Law Institute Securities Arbitration 2020 virtual conference. Sara’s panel discussed hot investment products for 2020 and 2021, how these products can change your arbitration trial strategy, and the use of experts to educate the arbitration panel.