Q&A with Beth Davis, Director and Human Resources Business Partner
10/06/2020
Beth Davis joined Hilltop Holdings as director and human resources business partner for HilltopSecurities in September 2020. Beth has more than 15 years of experience in Human Resources and will lead the firm’s culture, human capital, and learning and development efforts. We recently sat down with her to discuss her goals, her professional background, and what employees should keep in mind when pursuing a career in financial services.
Q: What’s your role at HilltopSecurities and what do you hope to accomplish?
A: I just started at HilltopSecurities as the Human Resources (HR) director. With a heart for continuous improvement, I hope to find opportunities for HR to add value to the business and make a lasting positive impact to the leadership team and employees.
Q: How many years of experience do you have in Human Resources?
A: I have over 15 years of HR experience with progressive leadership expertise. I spent 10 years at Nationstar Mortgage (d/b/a Mr. Cooper) and the last five years at Pioneer Natural Resources in the oil and gas industry.
Q: What has contributed to your professional success in Human Resources?
A: While HR subject matter expertise is always important, I have found that being customer focused has enabled me build strong relationships. Being responsive and focusing on relationships can make all the difference, especially when dealing with complex issues. Asking, “How can I help you?" is usually top of mind for me every day.
Q: What is the most fulfilling or rewarding part of your job?
A: The most rewarding part of my job is being able to solve problems and find solutions. Many times, an issue at hand is not clear-cut—for example, let's say, COVID-19. Being adaptable to change and meeting a manager and/or employee with an understanding of their current circumstances is key. The ability to find solutions and make things better is very rewarding.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their career?
A: Keep your foot on the gas! I know in the past, I’ve heard people say that they’re not advancing in their careers fast enough, or that their current role is not where they thought they'd be. I typically tell them to keep their foot on the gas. In my experience, doing your current job well and outperforming your peers will open doors for you. Being able to persevere in less than ideal circumstances is an indicator of strong character.
Q: If you had one thing you could say to a potential client about HilltopSecurities, what would it be?
A: While I am still learning about all this industry has to offer, what I have observed so far is that the depth of experience across our multiple business lines sets us apart. Every interaction I’ve had has reinforced HilltopSecurities’ reputation for being a firm that is committed to providing our clients with experienced guidance.
Q: Alma mater, family, pets, and hobbies—give us the elevator pitch.
A: I am a graduate of Texas Christian University, GO FROGS! I live in the Dallas-Fort Worth Mid-Cities with my husband, my two kids, and my goldendoodle Scout. I am a reluctant soccer and cheer mom and an avid runner. Every Sunday you can find my family and I rooting for the San Francisco 49ers.
Interested in joining HilltopSecurities? We’re always looking for dedicated, talented people to become a part of our team. Check out our careers page today to see if we have a position that’s perfect for you.
