As we celebrate Women’s History Month throughout March, we’re proud to continue our annual “Ladies Who Lead” blog series, highlighting the exceptional women who help shape the future of Longbridge.
This year’s theme from the National Women’s History Alliance, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” highlights the powerful role women play in building systems that strengthen our communities, support financial and generational resilience, and create a more sustainable future for both people and the planet.
Our next featured leader is Valerie Fahey, Head of EPMO and Strategic Initiatives at Longbridge. Let’s dive into the Q&A!
Q: What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
A: To me, Women’s History Month is a chance to be intentional about honoring the achievements of women throughout history. We owe a debt of gratitude to those who came before us—the decisions they made, the risks they took, and the courage they demonstrated when they weren’t given authority, credit, or even a seat at the table.
I’m especially grateful for the women leaders I met along my own path who taught me how to navigate complexity, advocate for others, and lead with genuine empathy. This month is also a reminder to reflect on what we, as women leaders, can do to create more equitable opportunities, sponsorship, and recognition — and to keep building workplaces where women can truly thrive.
Q: How could you contribute your wisdom, expertise, or ideas to empower other women?
A: I try to place as much emphasis on sponsoring and advocating for women as I do on mentoring them. It’s important not just to guide someone, but to ensure they receive credit for their achievements and that opportunities go to those who are ready for them.
I also enjoy demystifying leadership — sharing practical insights on how to frame a problem, communicate risk, and build clear plans that earn trust across teams. Sometimes empowerment is less about big speeches and more about reminding someone they’re not alone. A funny story, a shared challenge, or simply listening can make a meaningful difference.
Q: How does Longbridge set a culture of equality and inclusivity?
A: Equality and inclusivity are at the heart of Longbridge Financial’s mission to be consistently fair, transparent, and professional with our customers, partners, and one another. It’s reflected in our core value of maintaining the highest level of compliance and ethical behavior.
These principles create a clear tone at the top. Our teams are made up of individuals with diverse life experiences and backgrounds, and we actively consider multiple perspectives to create products that serve our customers fairly and ethically.
When I walk around the office or attend a meeting, I see many women leading teams and shaping the company’s future. Our women leaders come from all walks of life, and each contributes something unique to our shared success story.
Q: What is one piece of advice to women who are juggling home and work?
A: Society and the media can unintentionally create pressure to be perfect at both home and work. I want other women to know that no one is perfect at everything, and it’s okay to celebrate progress, even if not everything on your list gets done.
In my own life and career, I’ve been amazed by how empathetic and understanding friends, family, and colleagues can be when I admit I have too much on my plate. A little imperfection makes us human and gives us common ground with others. Progress happens step by step, and one day you’ll look back and realize those small steps carried you farther than you imagined.
Q: What advice would you give women struggling in a male-dominated industry?
A: Having started my career in Information Technology (IT), I sometimes felt like I was on the outside looking in. But some of the most meaningful progress happened when I continued showing up as myself and offering a new, unique perspective.
Lean into the discomfort that can come when your ideas challenge the status quo. Keep going — especially when you feel like giving up — because that feeling can signal you’re on the precipice of something great. The goal isn’t to work around others in the room; it’s to work with them in a way that brings out the best in everyone. It may take a few tries and a few failures, but patience with yourself and others can lead to remarkable results.
Q: Any tips for women looking for a mentor?
A: Don’t wait for a formal mentorship to fall into your lap. Identify leaders whose career paths or leadership styles you admire and ask for their time. Many leaders are willing to invest in the next generation because they understand the importance of building upon what came before them.
A great mentor doesn’t have to look like you or share your background. What matters is their willingness to invest in your growth and challenge you to think bigger. Be intentional, ask thoughtful questions, seek feedback, and act on their guidance. The best mentorships are reciprocal where there’s learning on both sides.
Q: What do you think helped you get this far in your career?
A: I attribute this to my willingness to keep learning and the people I’ve surrounded myself with. I’ve never been afraid to ask questions or admit when I didn’t have all the answers. That honesty has opened more doors than pretending to know it all ever could.
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside colleagues who challenged my thinking and leaders who gave me opportunities before I felt fully ready. Persistence has also been key. There were moments when I could have stepped back, but choosing to stay in the conversation and keep showing up made all the difference.
Q: What would you say to your 20-year-old self?
A: I would tell her, “You have more time than you think.” Early in life and career, everything feels urgent. But some of your greatest accomplishments will come later, as your values and priorities sharpen and bring clarity to your path.
So don’t rush. Don’t compare your timeline to anyone else’s. You have plenty of time to do remarkable things — and success will happen at exactly the right moment.
Thank you, Valerie, for sharing your perspective and for the thoughtful leadership you bring to Longbridge. You are an inspiration to women across our organization and beyond!
About Women’s History Month
The celebration of Women’s History Month began in 1981 when Congress authorized President Jimmy Carter to proclaim “Women’s History Week.” In 1987, following efforts led by the National Women’s History Alliance, the observance was expanded to the entire month of March.
Each year, Women’s History Month recognizes the countless contributions women have made across industries, communities, and generations — while inspiring continued progress toward equity and opportunity for all.