Leading the Way with Sarah Letourneau

 

Leading from Work

 

How did your career develop?

When I was an equity trader at BTIG and a salesperson at Bloomberg, I discovered I loved sales and financial markets. Private Wealth Management allows me to combine these interests while also "owning my own business" within the firm. At Goldman Sachs, having a great business partner, Kevin Paige, has allowed me to take my career and our business to the next level.

What’s the most important career advice you’ve received? 

A growth mindset is critical. Constantly look to learn, get better, and bring more to the table will not only benefit you but also — and more importantly —your clients.

What is your role at Goldman Sachs, and how do you support your clients?

As a Private Wealth Advisor, I advise ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families on the full spectrum of their wealth management needs.

How do you lead by example?

Every day I try to demonstrate the values that lead to success in this business — a focus on clients, empathy, dedication, and collaboration with my teammates. I’m also proud of my ability to balance my family life, which includes young children, with the demands of my business.

What are some interesting themes and/or trends that you see in your area of expertise?

Planning for potential future tax reforms continues to be top of mind. This coupled with the changing post-pandemic “work from anywhere” landscape will continue to motivate people to leave high-income tax states in favor of states with no income tax. 

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love my clients. They are interesting and engaged people who have done something meaningful to accumulate the wealth they have. I’m grateful I get to spend most of my time interacting with and learning from them.

 

Leading from Home

 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

First, develop a morning practice. Taking time to meditate, write in a journal, do a few minutes of yoga or stretching, and set intentions for the day can help you feel balanced and meet your goals. They also ground you and can help you survive the challenging moments that await. Second, don’t waste your free time. It’s such a luxury. You will fully appreciate this when you have kids.

How do you find motivation and inspiration?

I have a fantastic team, wonderful business partners, and incredible clients. They motivate me to bring my A game. I am also motivated by my family. My husband and kids are the most interesting people I have ever met. They deserve the very best from me. I am strongly motivated to be a better person for them.

What is one thing you make time for every week?

Barry’s Bootcamp. I struggle with motivation in the gym unless someone is telling me what to do and how hard to work.

What is your favorite weekend activity?

Engaging in significant family time, preferably outdoors. We love the beach, and the Bay Area has some great ones. 

How do you stay healthy – mentally, physically, or both?     

I recently went on a weeklong yoga retreat in Montana, and it was one of the best things I have ever done. It was an incredible chance to reset spiritually, emotionally, and physically, and I met some fantastic people. I find yoga to be a wonderful lifelong practice to keep yourself centered and a great way to stay in shape.

What is your favorite book, movie, podcast, or artwork?

I’m a huge reader. Memoirs, biographies, and investigative journalism are my preferred genres. Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life, by William Finnegan, is a favorite. It chronicles his lifelong enchantment with surfing and the ocean, interests he pursued while maintaining a demanding career as a journalist. His commitment to his passions is inspiring.

 

Leading for the Future

 

How do we provide more leadership opportunities to women in the workforce?

It’s been said before, but I believe flexibility is critical — the ability to work from home is one way to provide this. I’m ecstatic that in recent years Goldman Sachs has extended its benefits to include extended parental leave, fertility coverage, and the like. I believe this support will keep women more actively engaged at work and therefore more likely to pursue and thrive in leadership roles.

What are some of your professional and personal goals?

Professionally, I’d like to continue to meaningfully grow our business while providing a top-notch client experience. Staying close to clients and trusted intermediaries is how I see that happening.

On the personal side, one of my children died three years ago. Losing my daughter Sylvie was (and is) an unspeakably painful and emotional event in my life. Shortly after Sylvie died, I took part in a peer grief support group, which was immensely helpful as I learned to navigate life without her. In the future, I would like to pay it forward and be more involved with this organization. 

What suggestions would you give to women who are starting their career?

You’ve got to pay your dues and work hard — you are just starting, so now’s the time to do it. Be open to new possibilities and say yes often. Use every opportunity to meet new people and to grow your network.

Also, be sure to balance your work with a fulfilling life outside the office. Find passions and be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your heart on fire. Eventually, find love if you can. Have kids if you want them. Life is only as interesting as you make it.

Where do you see yourself in five to 10 years?

In a similar place as now — growing my business, taking care of our clients, spending time with family and friends, and slipping in yoga sessions when I can!