Ann Schroeder
From Wimbledon to Wall Street and from Wall Street to M Street, Ann Schroeder is founder and CEO of GlobalSource Partners, Inc. By developing a network of highly respected economic and political analysts, Ann’s firm provides clients with independent research and analysis of 20 developing countries. From quarterly outlooks, monthly reports, sensitive market briefs and insightful special reports to individual meetings and discussions, GlobalSource Partners Inc. provides research tailored to help clients minimize risk and make informed decisions.
1. From Wimbledon to Wall Street — tell me about this leg of your journey.
I grew up in Texas and received a tennis scholarship to Trinity University in San Antonio. I played a lot of tennis, was named All-American during my senior year and played professionally for several years. It was an honor to compete at the US Open, Wimbledon and other championships. When I decided to quit tennis in 1984, I went to work as a broker at Shearson Lehman Brothers in Dallas. Through my tennis connections, I signed up the Association of Tennis Professionals, which is the professional association for the men’s tour and even a few NBA players. When I moved to New York City, I initially worked at Institutional Analysts, a firm providing management and marketing services for independent analysts.
2. What was your approach to starting GlobalSource Partners?
I started the firm, LatinSource, in 1995 when I noticed there were few on-the-ground domestic experts analyzing emerging market countries. Five years later, I started GlobalSource in response to the growing demand for similar services in emerging market countries outside Latin America. The two firms subsequently merged to form GlobalSource Partners, Inc. in 2008. Basically, we sell independent research to financial institutions to help them make investment decisions on behalf of their clients.
3. The Women’s Professional Organization (WPO) is an organization for women presidents of multimillion-dollar companies. Members of the WPO take part in professionally-facilitated peer advisory groups in order to coax the “genius out of the group.” As a member-at-large, how has it impacted your business?
The network of members has been extremely useful as a sounding board. Since we all started as entrepreneurs, we have common issues such as hiring and retaining (or not retaining) employees. We have common questions, such as how do you set-up or scale your technology infrastructure. This group provides a safe environment to discuss business issues in order to make the best business decisions.
4. Did you have a mentor, or mentors, along the way?
There were always men and women with whom I respected and were role models for me. From my independent nature, probably going back to my tennis days, I tried to figure a lot out on my own. However there is one woman who stands out, Ruth Krivoy, who previously served as Governor of the Central Bank of Venezuela. In addition to being extremely smart, I would observe how she processed information and communicated to clients in a clear and articulate manner. There was no energy wasted, on irrelevant issues, but rather a central focus on the issues at-hand and addressing them with detailed clarity.
5. After working 10 years, you went to Fordham University and earned a MBA in 1992. If, and how, did a MBA benefit the growth of your business?
First, I was able to learn from great speakers and professors who had years of experience in both business and on Wall Street. Whether you’re selling shoes or selling securities, you have to be able to communicate what you have and believe in the product or service. To me, it’s important to be honest, treat people with respect and believe in what I’m selling.
6. From Wall Street to M Street — now that you’re on another leg of your journey, what general advice would you pass along to young professional women?
This may sound idealized but follow your passion. If you’re in the process of finding your passion, do whatever you’re doing with enthusiasm and energy. Others will notice and often provide opportunities that will help in finding your passion – then, follow it.
