Work-Life Integration Shero

Margie Pagdanganan, Citi Private Bank Asia Pacific Operations & Technology Head

Anyone introduced to Margie Pagdanganan, Citi Private Bank Asia Pacific Operations & Technology Head, can be forgiven for assuming that her critical role at one of the world’s leading private banks is enough to keep her hands full. Yet, even to those who have known and admired her for many years, Margie surprises persistently with her service and commitment to her profession, family, community, personal well-being and faith life.

Margie had discovered not just the elusive work-life balance but the focus to incorporate the varied areas of her life to create a whole picture or work-life integration. Sounds easy, but unbelievably complex to achieve. While the rest of us have 24 hours to fulfill the demands of our lives, Margie appears to have 48 hours by exceeding the demands of her work and finding every bit of time to reach out and be a loving family member, selfless community advocate, best friend to everyone and a generous soul, almost to a fault. This is not at all surprising from someone who had been brought up by a family that puts a premium on faith, integrity and respect. A high achiever and compassionate being is a scarce combination in this busy world we live in, yet, Margie lives by her faith and is a testimony that success and meaningful living can be done and we have much to emulate from her.

FMAG: Your leadership role in Citi is demanding. What is a typical workday for you?

MP: Given the pandemic, my days are filled with Zoom meetings with colleagues, stakeholders and external parties. It often starts at 8:30 a.m. and I have frequent calls till late into the evening, typically three to four times a week. I ensure that I protect my dinner times with my family. Friday evenings and weekends are also time for other endeavors and activities outside work.

Margie is surrounded by her loving family amidst the Singapore skyline (L_R): Robin, Marielle, husband Roland, Margie, and Ryan.

FMAG: How had your career journey been?

MP: This year marks my 29 years with my company. My journey from Baguio is typical for many like me who would trek to Manila after finishing studies. Working at SGV&Co (then Arthur Andersen) and being trained in technology audit brought me to a path I preferred rather than financial auditing.   

This path brought me to Citibank, and I had the opportunity to work in four distinct areas – Internal Audit, Transaction Services Product, Private Bank and now Operations & Technology. Citi, through its focus on diversity and leadership development, provided me with the means and opportunities that helped me take courageous steps as I transitioned into these various areas. I actively participated in women leadership and talent programs in Citi. I have had managers, mentors and friends who had given me friendly pushes as I ventured into each new endeavor.

Well-loved and admired Margie Pagdanganan thinks of others’ good before hers.

My career movements were preludes to career growth. In some cases, as my department was being relocated, I had to push myself to go out of my comfort zone to try something different in a new country. 

Becoming a leader is something that Citi has drawn out from me. The leadership programs emphasize authenticity that allow one to reflect on the legacy that can be passed on to the next generation of leaders. Being able to bring my authentic self at work has defined my work ethic and leadership. One will not always succeed or be right. The important thing is picking oneself up after a failure and moving on. A leader must learn to make decisions and be accountable for them.

FMAG: You have a family, a demanding work and a time for spiritual community service through Couples for Christ. Where do you get the energy and motivation to keep going with your commitments?

MP: It is not always easy but what drives me is having a purpose and a sense of excellence. Professionally, one should give one’s best to reach the highest potential knowing that with success and leadership comes responsibility and accountability. I want to give back and help others grow and develop. I believe one should leave a place better and people should feel that one’s leadership has made a difference.

Faith guides Margie in a lot of her decision-making.

Outside of work, faith and gratitude drive me. I want to share our blessings and make a positive impact on people’s lives whenever I can.

FMAG: How do you give back or pay forward? 

MP:  I am part of Citi Women Singapore as one of the advisors. We are passionate about providing tools for women in reaching their aspirations through various programs like return to work, maternity matters, leadership talks, Lean In, I am Remarkable (from Google), male allyship and Technology series.  

I also mentor several men and women - learning from my mentees along the way, too. I taught financial literacy to migrants in Singapore for several years through my company’s outreach programs.

Outside work, I continue to serve in my spiritual community and work with single professionals and married couples. I go for mission trips to several countries.

FMAG: With the countless people you have helped, what had been the most gratifying thanks you have ever received?

MP: The most gratifying thanks I received was seeing some of them pay it forward with their time, talent and treasure. Nothing is more beautiful than seeing the ripple effects of kindness and generosity spread.

FMAG: Was there ever a crisis in your life that taught you a lesson that you would absolutely want your adult children to learn?

MP: I lost my mother after a sudden aneurysm attack and a prolonged stay in the hospital in Singapore. I did not have any of my siblings with me and it was difficult to manage family, work and the situation I found myself in. The lesson I learnt is that faith gives the strength to endure, and family is always one’s anchor.  Whatever it is that my grown-up children will face in life, I would want them to always remember the things in life that shaped and ground them that will give them courage to carry on and persevere.

FMAG: What advice can you give to fellow overseas Filipinos in representing the Philippines in what they say and do?

MP: Represent the best of our country. We are known to be hospitable, fun-loving, enduring and hard working people. Always fly the banner high and ensure every interaction leaves individuals with a positive experience that showcases Filipino caliber and values.

FMAG: What is a picture of a transformed Philippines you long to witness?

MP: Our country has many strengths and opportunities. A Philippines that is economically successful, progressive, with equal opportunity for its constituents and governed with strength and integrity is one that I know I will see.

FMAG: What would you have to say to your 18-year-old self?

MP: The world ahead will be exciting and interesting. Be fearless or rather, do not be afraid to fail. Try and explore whatever comes your way. Pursue your passions. Learn quickly from your mistakes. Do not worry about what people may think or tell you. Be discerning and selective in picking the impactful and constructive criticism. Travel extensively. Study continuously and be generous.