Wendy C. Wilson
Wendy C. Wilson is a bestselling author, speaker, and executive coach with over 35 years of experience in corporate leadership. Throughout her career, she has held senior roles including CFO of a benefits consulting firm and leadership positions in global procurement and supplier management across the United States, London, and India. Her extensive experience in executive leadership, strategic sourcing, and team development has positioned her as a trusted voice in leadership, resilience, and career transformation.
After relocating to Madison, Wisconsin, Wendy transitioned from corporate life to consulting, which led to her unexpected journey as an author. During a period of reflection and slowing down, she wrote what began as a personal journal and evolved into her bestselling book, Iron Will (2024). The success of her book opened doors to speaking engagements, media features, and coaching opportunities, allowing her to share practical strategies on leadership, resilience, and navigating adversity with professionals nationwide.
Today, Wendy balances her roles as a speaker, author, consultant, and executive coach. She continues to inspire leaders and teams to rise from challenges to peak performance, while developing an online course on resilience and leadership. With a focus on executive leadership, personal growth, and organizational strategy, she leverages her corporate experience to help others thrive in times of change, all while exploring new technologies and preparing her next book on financial planning for those over 50.
• AI Mastery Certification
• ITIL Service Operations
• Employee of the Year
• Bestselling Author (Iron Will)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, adaptability, and embracing change—even when it’s uncomfortable. Slowing down after decades in high-intensity corporate leadership taught me how to transition into purpose-driven work. Staying open to unexpected opportunities, from my book becoming a bestseller to an author signing at Barnes & Noble, has shaped my journey.
Continuous learning—from AI courses to exploring new media tools—keeps me growing, but most importantly, I trust my voice as a leader and author. The greatest reward is when someone tells me a talk resonated and inspired action—that impact is what drives me.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received came through the influence of mentors, colleagues, and leaders throughout my corporate journey. Their guidance, along with the challenges and opportunities I encountered, shaped my leadership style, resilience, and confidence. Every experience—whether supportive or demanding—helped prepare me to lead, adapt, and reinvent myself over time.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to trust your instincts, embrace growth opportunities, and not be afraid to evolve beyond traditional career paths. Resilience, self-belief, and openness to reinvention are essential. My own career transition shows that success doesn’t have to follow a single linear path—it’s possible to create a fulfilling second chapter rooted in purpose and impact.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now are burnout, rapid change, and uncertainty—especially for leaders and professionals navigating career transitions later in life. At the same time, there are tremendous opportunities in leadership development, resilience training, coaching, and speaking, as organizations and individuals look for guidance on navigating change, redefining purpose, and building sustainable leadership practices. Emerging technologies, including AI, also offer exciting ways to expand reach, education, and personal impact when used thoughtfully.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both work and life are authenticity, purpose, and making a meaningful impact. After years in high-intensity corporate leadership roles, I’ve learned to slow down and be intentional with my time. I prioritize continuous learning and growth—whether that’s developing an online course, earning an AI Mastery certification, or collaborating with my husband on our next book to help people over 50 with their finances.
Service through leadership development is central to my work. The greatest reward is when someone tells me a talk resonated and inspired them to take action—that impact is what drives me. I also value collaboration, creativity, and balance. While I love what I do, I’ve learned it’s equally important to embrace this new chapter and enjoy the journey.
Locations
Private Company
Verona, WI 53593