Beyond Numbers: Crafting Your Path in Financial Services

As the National Recruit Lead for RBC Wealth Management, Malaika Paye collaborates with key business partners and field leaders, aligning technology initiatives with RBC’s strategic goals and showcasing technology capabilities to financial advisor prospects nationwide. Outside of work, Malaika volunteers for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and in 2022, was named a Twin Cities Finest Honoree for raising awareness of the disease and received funds to further the foundation’s research efforts. Malaika graduated magna cum laude from Minnesota State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Marketing.

Michael Kiplagat is the Manager of the Fact Sheets and Publishing Team at Federated Investors. With nearly 11 years at Federated, his journey started as a college intern before transitioning to a full-time associate business systems analyst role. From there, Michael held various roles throughout the company before stepping into his current position. Leading a team of business analysts and developers, Michael is responsible for aggregating product data to create fact sheets and literature for web and print consumption. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems Management from Duquesne University, complemented by a minor in Management.

Anthony Cannon is a Senior Talent Acquisition Manager at NFP. He leads a team dedicated to managing recruitment efforts for NFP’s Northeast employee benefits division and supporting recruitment initiatives for Wealthspire, an NFP subsidiary specializing in Wealth Management. Before NFP, Anthony built a diverse background in recruiting across various corporate sectors and the Department of Defense. Anthony’s passion for recruiting is more than a profession—it’s a dynamic drive that fuels his every endeavor. He has an unwavering commitment to connecting exceptional talent with outstanding opportunities. Anthony received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Resources Management from DeVry University.

As the Head of Operations for the Financial Alliance for Racial Equity (FARE), Nicole Ridley brings over 15 years of experience in relationship management, finance, commercial real estate, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Nicole has a deep passion for people and leading culture initiatives within the workplace to achieve optimal results. In her current role, Nicole drives the development and implementation of strategies, initiatives, and programs for the FARE. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Ohio State University’s Max M. Fisher College of Business and a master’s degree in Business Administration from Ohio Dominican University.

Suzanne Siracuse, Founder and CEO of Suzanne Siracuse Consulting, LLC, specializes in advising financial services firms on innovative business strategies, distinctive marketing programs, and impactful advocacy initiatives. The creator and host of The Big Reveal Podcast Series, Suzanne engages with industry thought leaders and influencers in the wealth management field. In November 2020, InvestmentNews recognized Suzanne with the Women to Watch “Trailblazer” award for her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the financial services industry. Suzanne holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Rider University.