Susan Raatz, MBA, PMP, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Susan Raatz, MBA, PMP, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, is a strategic change leader with extensive experience driving enterprise-wide business transformation, technology governance, and operational excellence. Currently at Discover Financial Services, she leads initiatives that standardize SDLC and risk gate reviews across multiple programs, delivering measurable efficiency and compliance improvements. Her expertise spans financial services, insurance, manufacturing, and technology, with a proven track record of implementing governance frameworks, leading cross-functional teams, and executing large-scale business transformation programs.
With a career built on resilience, continuous learning, and results-driven leadership, Susan has successfully designed and implemented Lean Six Sigma and Agile methodologies to enhance organizational performance and generated millions in cost savings. Recognized for her ability to align strategic vision with operational execution, she excels in fostering collaboration, improving processes, and delivering sustainable outcomes in complex, highly matrixed environments.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susan is deeply committed to volunteer work and mentorship. She rescues dogs from Chicago Care and Animal Control and fosters for It's a Pittie Dog Rescue. She was recognized as an advisor for the PMI Project Management Quality Community of Practice and service as a board member for the Chicago Section of ASQ. Her dedication to service, combined with her technical expertise and leadership acumen, positions her as a trusted partner in driving organizational success and meaningful impact.
• ICAgile Certified Professional
• Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)
• Certified Business Agility Coach (CBAC)
• Certified Scrum Master (CSM)
• Project Management Profesional (PMP)
• Certified Six Sigma Black Belt
• Certified Quality Engineer
• Lake Forest Graduate School of Management - MBA
• National Louis University - BS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my resilience, tenacity, and unwavering love for learning. I’ve learned to persevere through challenges with determination, adapt to change with an open mind, and continuously seek growth both personally and professionally. My commitment to self-improvement and lifelong learning has been the driving force behind every achievement in my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Always stay positive.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be tenacious, be resilient, and stay relevant. Success requires perseverance through challenges, the courage to adapt in an ever-changing landscape, and a commitment to continuous growth. Embrace every opportunity to learn, evolve, and refine your skills—you’ll not only build a strong foundation but also stand out as a confident, capable professional.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is staying relevant. The industry is constantly evolving, and success depends on the ability to adapt, learn, and grow with those changes. Embracing new technologies, market trends, and innovative strategies not only ensures continued relevance but also creates opportunities for leadership and long-term success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are passion, continuous growth, and creativity. I approach every endeavor with energy and dedication, always striving to improve and never remaining stagnant. As a lifelong learner, I embrace opportunities to better myself professionally and personally. I also cherish collaboration and creativity outside of work—my husband, a producer, and I have even created music videos together for our local animal shelter and GiGi's Playhouse, combining our skills to make a meaningful impact in the community.