Women's History Month 2025: Spotlight on Carolyn Schlapp

For Women's History Month, we've profiled two colleagues. In March, Christina Tolias, Director, Commercial FX Risk Solutions, talked about how this month resonates for her, and her leadership role in the Women at TD Employee Resource Group. In April, we welcome Carolyn Schlapp, Director, Corporate Banking, and co-chair of Women at TD's mentoring subcommittee. We encourage you to hear their points of view on this important subject.

In your opinion, how can the finance industry continue to improve its representation of women in leadership roles?

To improve the representation of women in leadership roles, I believe firms need to implement intentional hiring policies, utilize mentorship/sponsorship programs and develop succession planning strategies. Firms should set measurable diversity goals and be held accountable to those metrics with regular tracking. Additionally, offering leadership training and programs tailored to women specifically could help to improve future representation.

How do you advocate for policies that promote gender equity and social responsibility in your firm or in the industry at large?

Within my firm, I vocally support key initiatives and policies such as paid parental leave, flexible working arrangements and unbiased promotion structures. I also actively participate in Women at TD, a volunteer committee dedicated to inspiring, connecting, and developing female colleagues at TD Securities, which works to continuously provide support, tools, and resources to help women at the firm.

What initiatives or programs have you been involved with that aim to support women in finance or promote diversity in the workplace?

I co-chair the Women at TD mentoring subcommittee and we run a number of incredible mentoring initiatives focused on supporting women at TD. A select few include:

Women at TD "Power Networking" is a marquee annual event where selected female bankers can connect with executives and senior leaders from across TD during a unique speed networking session with one-on-one mentorship, along with a hosted fireside chat discussion and a networking reception.

The "Tea for Three" mentorship program matches a senior TD Securities leader and with two mentees for a six-month program. The objective is to create a connection between peers and leaders with whom they may not normally interact as part of their day-to-day role to foster greater mentorship across the organization.

How do you personally mentor or support other women at TD or in the industry?

In addition to my work on the Women at TD mentoring subcommittee, I have participated in mentorship programs within my line of business, including mentoring multiple associates, analysts and Interns within Corporate and Investment Banking over the years.

I am also personally involved with Big Brother Big Sisters of NYC. I have been a "big" sister to a high school "little" sister in the past and continue to support the charity's initiatives of mentoring and youth development programming.

What are your thoughts on the importance of creating inclusive workspaces, and how can finance firms do better in this regard?

An inclusive workspace is paramount in ensuring all employees feel valued, heard, and empowered at work. Business resource groups (BRGs) can be a key tool to ensure that a firm's diverse workforce has representation and a voice to influence company policy and culture.

Who were your role models or mentors throughout your career, and what impact did they have on your journey?

I have been fortunate to have several great mentors – both male and female – over my career. These mentor connections have come through both formal mentorship programs I joined as well as through informal avenues, such as following up for a coffee chat with a leader I met at a networking event. Mentorship has played a pivotal role in my career advancement and personal growth, with these mentors helping to build my confidence and encouraging me to take on challenges that have elevated my personal brand.

What has been one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned as a woman in finance?

Find your voice and do not be afraid to speak up. Whether in a client meeting, a team huddle or a discussion with your manager – your voice is the most useful tool you have for expressing your ideas and showcasing your value.

What advice would you give to women who are just starting in their careers or looking to take on leadership roles?

I cannot say enough about the importance of building a strong network early on and continuing to develop it throughout your career, especially when you consider the pressures and challenges that come along with working in a hyper-competitive and high-stress industry like finance. I believe proactively seeking mentorship and sponsorship across my network has been integral for my career development and finding fulfillment at work.