The Most Powerful Women in Banking

Attacking a problem — whether it's structuring an acquisition or merger for a Citigroup client or mastering the crescendo of a complicated piece — is about approaching it with creativity for Elinor Hoover.

To help facilitate collaboration for employees spread throughout the world, Elizabeth "Liz" Myers convened a two-day gathering of her managing directors so they could discuss clients' needs. The event is now in its second year and is expected to be annual.

People who are used to doing something a certain way — and succeeding — often balk at being asked to do it differently. Without a deft touch from management, morale can suffer. That was the challenge facing Kathie Andrade when TIAA promoted her to CEO of its retail financial services business.

For Tracey Brophy Warson, there's little difference between building relationships and building her business.

You learn a lot about how Paula Polito got to where she is — overseeing four businesses with $160 billion of assets — by asking how she landed her first job.