Rachel Wilner, Head of Commercial Communication & Knowledge Management, brings a unique approach to leadership. Her journey to becoming one of the leading voices at the Commercial Bank at TD is far from conventional.
Starting as a school teacher, Rachel navigated diverse industries, from pharmaceutical sales to banking, with an unyielding drive and commitment to helping others.
From classroom to the boardroom
Rachel’s professional journey began in the Philadelphia school system, where she taught math. While teaching provided a foundation for her passion for guiding others, she realized her aspirations extended beyond the classroom.
“I opened up the Yellow Pages and started cold-calling companies to find a new job in corporate training,” she recalled. This led to her first foray into the corporate world, training employees at organizations like Estee Lauder and Pfizer.
Her transition into sales was equally organic. A client saw her potential and encouraged her to join Pfizer’s team to support the launch of Viagra—a decision that kickstarted her sales career.
It wasn’t until years later, in the aftermath of the events that occurred on September 11, 2001, that Rachel would bring her skills into the banking world.
“I was scheduled to interview for a small business banking role on September 12, but they just called me and said, ‘We need you to come and help,’” she said. “They said, ‘You live in Manhattan, you're where our clients are, and we need you to step in as a relationship manager and help support our clients during this unprecedented time.’ And so, without any banking experience, I started in the banking industry.”
Leading with purpose
At TD Bank, Rachel has made significant strides in fostering inclusivity and mentorship.
A notable achievement is her co-creation of the “Take the L.E.A.D.” program, aimed at empowering women in leadership.
“When I moved into the Regional Vice President position, there were very few women in leadership roles in the Commercial Bank,” she explained. “And that was why I and two other women put together this Take the L.E.A.D. program - because we wanted to help elevate female talent into executive leadership roles.”
The program pairs female mentees with female mentors and male allies, encouraging collaboration and growth through specific initiatives - called L.E.A.D. Forward Passion Projects. These initiatives are an opportunity to develop and execute a passion project that supports the Strategic Business Plan of the Commercial Bank.
These projects are designed not only to improve the bank, but also to develop the participants’ leadership skills and visibility within the bank.
“It’s about providing the opportunity for them to find their voice, put a plan in place, and to create more connections that will add value throughout their careers," Wilner said.
Now in its fifth cohort, the program has helped numerous women ascend to senior roles, a testament to its impact and her dedication.
Taking the Lead into a new role
In fact, Rachel made a very interesting transition within banking, moving from running a large part of the bank's footprint as a Regional Vice President to her current role as Head of Communications and Knowledge Management for the Commercial Bank. And this move spawned from the L.E.A.D. program.
"I imagine it could seem very daunting to transition from a front office function to support back office in a strategic capacity," she admitted. "But it ended up being such a perfect fit based on my experiences and passions. Ultimately, it came down to the connections I made throughout my career.
Rachel said she met Julie Pukas, Head of Commercial Strategy and Integration at TD, through the L.E.A.D. program.
"Julie was developing a new business within the Commercial Bank. If not for the connection and relationship formed from the L.E.A.D. Program, she would have never known my skill set or work ethic."
Rachel actually started in her new role at the end of 2019, with the pandemic just months away.
"My team snapped into action to help support TD Cares, the Paycheck Protection Program and Forgiveness and so many other critical topics that required an agile communications and training style," she said. "So many things we stood up during that time are still being leveraged today! So often I hear, I'm not sure what we would have done without your team! It was such a sense of pride and made me quickly see the impact and value of our efforts!"
Today, Rachel supports internal communications, training and development programs. Her team provides the tools and resources needed to support colleague success, such as the Commercial Insider.
"My entire career had prepared me for today, especially all my sales knowledge. I gained a perspective what our team needs, how they digest information, different ways people learn, who's who in our organization to help make connections, and ultimately, how can we build the better bank and provide legendary experiences for our customers!" she added.
Balancing career and family
Rachel’s approach to leadership is deeply influenced by her role as a parent.
“My kids look at me and my resiliency, and they’re my biggest cheerleaders,” she said. “I always put family first. Back when the kids were younger, if I attended a Halloween parade during the day, my kids understood I would have to get my work done later at night.”
Her family’s pride in her accomplishments fuels her drive, as does the example she sets for them.
Whether helping businesses secure loans or mentoring future leaders, Rachel’s impact extends far beyond the walls of TD Bank.
Advice for aspiring leaders
For those looking to rise in their careers, Rachel’s guidance is clear.
“Be great in the seat that you’re sitting in,” she said. “When you shine doing the work you’ve been given, it will provide opportunities for your future.”
She also encourages professionals to seek opportunities outside their daily responsibilities, a strategy that has served her well.
“Some of the most compelling things I’ve done have been outside my everyday work,” she noted, pointing to her involvement in mentorship programs and organizational initiatives.
Her leadership style is a blend of pragmatism, empathy, and forward-thinking. She recognizes the evolving nature of communication in the workplace and has spearheaded efforts to adapt.
From podcasts and bulletins to TD Talks, she champions diverse methods to ensure effective messaging across generations and preferences.
Her vision for a more inclusive, dynamic banking industry continues to drive her efforts.
“Banking is a great career for women,” she said, emphasizing the importance of diversity in thought and experience. “I think it is great to have a different voice and different eyes sitting around the table. And I think the more we have diversity in thinking either in the people that are around or diversity in thinking and the experiences that you've had, it helps you to look at things with a different perspective.”