Empowering Women in Wealth Management

In this interview, Senior Managing Director Ramona Mockoviak shares how Chevy Chase Trust fosters a culture of collaboration and teamwork where women thrive.

How would you describe your role at CCT?

I lead Chevy Chase Trust’s Virginia office. I’m an advisor, meaning I work directly with clients and client families as a relationship manager and as the leader of the teams that deliver our services. I’m also responsible for bringing new families into our Chevy Chase Trust family. We exclusively focus on both multigenerational wealth creation and preservation. There’s a very human element to all that we do—it’s a profound professional responsibility, particularly when we’re acting in a capacity as a trustee or executor, interacting with a family in a critical time of life. I’m motivated by the desire to help.

What drew you to CCT in the first place?

I strongly believe that we add value for our clients day in and day out. I’ve had the benefit of working in large organizations, including another private bank, where I encountered many sharp elbows. You can get to the top, but there’s no benefit in trying to help others along the way. At Chevy Chase Trust, it’s the opposite—an embracing culture from Day One. Do I think our clients benefit from it? I do. We’re a steady presence that can help in every phase of their lives.

How does CCT elevate women throughout the firm?

Chevy Chase Trust has a culture of mentorship. There’s a willingness among the experienced, longstanding members of the firm, to reach out to the younger cohort in a friendly way that isn’t contrived.  When mentorship is natural like it is here, and people connect with leaders they want to emulate and create a real friendship, then it’s powerful. Additionally, there aren’t barriers at the firm. The women in leadership positions, like our Chief Investment Officer, Amy Raskin, and Managing Director, Blake Doyle, are outstanding  professionals, regardless of gender.

Why is female leadership important at CCT?

Until I was in the interview process to join the firm, the high number of women in key leadership positions didn’t really strike me. Now I see that it’s created a collaborative and merit-based culture. Our firm is not hierarchical. Instead, it embraces collaboration and teamwork. By elevating merit and recognizing talent, talented women are more likely to rise to the top. I also believe women are in some ways uniquely suited to be wealth managers. Women tend to be very good listeners and that translates into better strategy.

What advice would you give to other women in this field?

What I say to young women, including the young women here at Chevy Chase Trust, is to look for an environment where you can thrive and be respected. Know that you can advocate for yourself, whether it’s about your position, compensation or opportunities.

Read Ramona Mockoviaks‘ Bio »