A self-proclaimed “introvert,” Victoria Williams admits to being inexplicably energized while in the company of like-minded philanthropic women. See how her unique childhood pushed her out of her shell and into the limelight of women’s leadership groups both professionally and as a volunteer.

Q. What are your primary responsibilities, and why are they rewarding?
A. I lead a team that supports our Card Members’ ability to grow their spending with American Express. We’re focused on maintaining relationships, educating our members, and ensuring the company keeps its #1 ranking with J.D. Power and Associates. I’m also one of the leaders of our Women’s Interest Network (WIN), which creates development, networking, and volunteering opportunities for American Express member employees.

Q. What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned during your career?
A. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. I’ve found that when I connect and build a foundation of trust and caring, then my teams will follow me.

Q. How has WLC benefited you professionally?
A. WLC has given me the confidence to reach out and form relationships with women I might have never known before. It has also encouraged me to be proactive in making a difference in my community through volunteerism.

Q. What three words best describe you?
A. Spunky, nerdy, joyful.

Q. How did you get involved with WLC?
A. Tammy Weinbaum invited WIN sponsors and leads to the fall event at the Desert Botanical Gardens, and I was inspired by the WLC mission and vision.

Q. What would your fellow WLC members be most surprised to learn about you?
A. I was adopted from a German orphanage as an infant by a wonderful Army family. As a result, I went to 13 different schools. I was a shy bookworm, so my mom enrolled me in debate club and drama to encourage me to get out of my shell. I’ve learned to adapt to new environments quickly by first observing others, learning how I can help, and then doing all I could to excel and help others meet their goals.

Q. In the future, what do you plan to do when/if you retire?
A. I plan on retiring and volunteering with international mission organizations.

Q. What do you enjoy doing in your down time?
A. I enjoy spending time with my three teenagers: one in college and two in high school, cooking and baking (my favorite dessert is crème brûlée), hiking our wonderful Arizona trails, riding my bike in fundraising tours - especially for the ADA and MS Foundation, attending cultural and educational events, volunteering, reading, singing, and traveling.