Megan Sundmaker is constantly looking for ways to reach new clients and finding innovative ways to achieve her goals, exceeding her plan every year since she began leading the capital markets platform at TIAA Bank. Although Sundmaker is the face of the platform, she can often be overheard reminding her clients that capital markets is a team effort, as she always attributes her success and strong growth to the entire support team she leads. She accomplishes this by providing excellent service to her existing capital markets partners and by onboarding new capital markets partners.

Sundmaker is the epitome of an exceptional leader, as she has a long track record of success in growing businesses, For more than 15 years, by effectively collaborating with colleagues and championing teamwork amongst her support teams, Sundmaker has established herself as an exemplary leader who consistently finds ways to overachieve in the vendor equipment financing industry,

Sundmaker began her career in information technology as a programmer before transitioning to project management a few years later. Early in her career, Sundmaker honed skills such as analysis, planning, execution and communication, which served as the foundation for her first sales position in which she increased territory volume, resulting in 25% overall volume growth.

Sundmaker transitioned to her role of capital markets relationship manager during the COVID-19 pandemic, taking the helm during a period of economic uncertainty, She has not only filled the very large shoes of her predecessor, but also managed to take the role and the capital markets platform to the next level. Sundmaker’s adept project management and relationship skills have allowed her to launch new programs smoothly and efficiently while propelling the capital markets team to accelerated growth.

‘In order to be successful in the equipment finance industry, you must be willing to practice three key principles,” Sundmaker says. “First, be willing to get out of your comfort zone, That is the only way you will grow, Second, always support your colleagues by recognizing their contributions. And third, advocate for your partners with passion and persistence.”

While Sundmaker’s track record of success is noteworthy, it is the way she conducts herself that makes her deserve recognition, Sundmaker is the consummate professional, ideal colleague and a leader who knows what it takes to achieve success. She is invaluable to her business partners and colleagues, from the operations team to clients. Sundmaker has redefined what it means to be a “people person” and is admired and respected by everyone she encounters.

Sundmaker emboldens those around her by providing support, guidance and reassurance, Recently, Sundmaker participated in a TIAA volunteer opportunity, teaching Junior Achievement curriculum for elementary school students on financial awareness. She found the experience extremely rewarding and a great opportunity to start conversations around financial awareness early. Above all, Sundmaker is the type of leader people desire to emulate, making her an ideal role model for many in the industry, especially young women.

“Megan is an experienced professional who is highly focused on exceeding the needs of her capital markets partners,” Justin Tabone, senior vice president of vendor equipment finance originations at TIAA Bank, says. “She accomplishes this through strong leadership of her support team, which enjoys working with her and wants to see her and the business succeed.”