Influential Woman · Banking Consulting
Priscilla Martens
Founder, Bankhers
York, SC
Her Story
About Priscilla
I’ve spent the past 10 years in the banking consulting industry, though it’s not a path I originally envisioned. I was a biology major at Winthrop University and initially planned to pursue nursing, even earning acceptance into Duke’s nursing program with dreams to become a midwife. Ultimately, I chose to defer due to the financial commitment and entered the workforce instead, where I discovered financial services and built my career.
I began in financial services staffing, spending over seven years supporting banking clients, before moving internally to Bank of America within their technology organization. For the past two years, I’ve served as a Senior Client Partner at Beacon Hill Solutions Group, working closely with financial institutions on complex initiatives.
My expertise is rooted in relationship management and problem-solving; getting beyond the surface to understand core challenges, asking the right (often difficult) questions, and helping teams move toward practical solutions. Over time, I’ve developed a deep specialization in investment banking and capital markets within financial institutions.
In early 2025, I founded Bankhers, a Charlotte-based women in banking networking group. My goal is to create a space that demonstrates you can lead with integrity and authenticity while actively supporting and advancing other women in the industry.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Priscilla
01What do you attribute your success to?
I’d say a lot of it came down to not having another option, you either figure it out or you don’t, and for me, not succeeding was never really on the table. I was an independent student in college, essentially navigating everything on my own without a built-in support system, relying on professors and advisors to help shape my path.
That perspective only deepened once I had a family. When you have people depending on you (especially children looking up to you) it changes your standard. Falling short isn’t something you allow yourself to do.
Beyond that, building strong relationships throughout my education and career has reinforced that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of who you are. With the right mix of grit, hard work, and authenticity, you can push forward while still staying true to yourself. My high school biology teacher, my college biology department director, numerous clients, and my faith have had a direct hand in the success I have been granted. I would not be here today without them.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
It was from Michael Scott: KISS "Keep It Simple Stupid". Best advice I've ever had, hurts my feelings every time.
But really - nothing is as difficult as we make it seem. Where all in the same boat, trying to navigate different currents with the tools we have available. At the end of the day, most people make it way harder than it needs to be. Prioritize what enables you to live a happy life and you're golden.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I’d say don’t let the industry change who you are at your core. It’s important to hold onto the qualities that make you who you are. You have a your unique perspective, your empathy, and your personality.
Success doesn’t require you to lose that. In fact, maintaining your authenticity is what sets you apart. Protect it, stay grounded in it, and don’t let anyone take that away from you.
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