Today we’d like to introduce you to Patricia Windon.
Hi Patricia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My start begins with my Dream of Modeling which was born in the 80’s. I was 12 yo, during a time when the word “super model” became mainstream in fashion magazines & runways. I read and studied everything I could get my hands on, on the subject.
Two years later, at 14 yo, I signed up for modeling classes at NH (formally known as Mayo Hill).
At 20 yo, I graduated from The Art Institute of Houston (C/O of 89′); with a Fashion degree. I managed a high-end menswear store in The Galleria, HTX and loved it!
By the age of 22, I’m married with 2 kids. my failed attempt of balancing it all was no longer fun, so I pivoted and replaced my Fashion career to start a new one with a 9-5 predictable schedule in the Finance industry; that was 35 years ago!
Throughout the years, I’ve held various positions in consulting business owners.
Today, 3 adult children, plus 1 grandson later; I am doing and experiencing everything I want.
Finance by Day & Fashion by Night ™️, underscores a large part of who I am.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Looking back at my Banking career, the challenge was finding balance with raising a family while working a FT job.
The struggle however, was the inevitable of working with some bad bosses and unsupported teammates from time to time which can happen at any job. They say “people don’t quit companies, they quit bosses”.
In the creative world as a PT model and actress. The frustration is not having the bandwidth I wish I had to play more in the sandbox.
A lot of the acting jobs are cast in Austin and Dallas during the workweek and I live in Houston.
In modeling, the obstacle is the fact that I don’t fit the typical image of young, tall and thin. Thankfully, that standard is slowly changing to being more inclusive.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a senior business banker at a global bank. I manage a portfolio of 100+ clients. I specialize as a trusted advisor; responsible for sales, growth, risk & servicing for companies (loans, lines, credit cards, deposits, etc).
I’m most proud of working my way up from a part-time drive thru teller to a senior vice president level. Putting titles and compensation aside; I love that I’ve had the opportunity of working with so many levels of business owners; from start ups to well established entrepreneurs in the 9 figure range.
At networking events, I’m known as The Factoring Lady™️. a super connector. My motto is: If I can’t help you directly, I likely know someone who can.
In the creative world; specifically in acting and modeling, I’m known for being ethnic and age ambiguous; eager to collaborate, hungry for opportunities to serve, represent & have fun.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
In the corporate world, back in the day (and some would say even today); it was frowned upon to move into different roles too often. You were seen as unstable, uncommitted, a risk.
However, lucky for me. I get bored easy which prompted me to transfer every 2-3 years or so to different roles which lead to my growth, earning potential and successful career.
In fashion, modeling and acting – that risk story is yet to come!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thefactoringlady.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patwindon
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/patwindon
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefactoringlady
- Other: https://www.thenealhamilagency.com/talent/patricia-windon
Image Credits
Image credit with hat/tie: Troy Thomas, El Grande PapiRatzi
