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Brooke Teal may have only recently joined Phillips & Cohen Associates, but her decade-long journey in the credit and collection industry has prepared her well for the role. From her early days as a staff attorney at Encore Capital Group to her transformative experience at Harvard Law School’s Leadership in Corporate Counsel Program, Brooke has built a career marked by continuous learning, meaningful connections, and an unwavering passion for her work. Read on to learn more about Brooke, her commitment to having as much fun as possible while working, and why you might want to reach out to her the next time you’re considering adopting a furry friend.
Name: Brooke Teal
Job Title: SVP Global Compliance, General Counsel
Company: Phillips & Cohen Associates, Ltd.
Length of time at current company: Less than a year
Length of time in industry: Over 10 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I started out as a staff attorney at Encore Capital Group/Midland Credit Management.
What is your career highlight so far?
In June of 2023, I attended Harvard Law School’s Leadership in Corporate Counsel Program in Cambridge, Mass. I learned from Harvard faculty along with corporate counsel leaders from 31 different countries. The connections I made and the knowledge gained are simply invaluable and will forever have an impact on my career.
When or how are you most productive?
I am always productive! The work never stops.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Bob Obringer. I had the incredible opportunity to learn from Bob at PCA before he retired. He led his teams with a kindness and thoughtfulness that few leaders come close to achieving. I will forever be grateful for the time I had with Bob to witness what he built at PCA as well as his continued friendship.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I have more fun! It’s so important to make the little things fun, to laugh with my colleagues, and to make an effort to truly enjoy our time in and out of the office.
What do you like most about this industry?
The people. Over the past decade, my industry friends have truly become like family.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I would be on a yacht in Greece with my dog and without cell service or Wi-Fi.
Describe a typical work day.
I don’t think any of my days are typical and that’s why I love this role. Each week brings its own opportunities and challenges. I’m fortunate to work with amazing teams here at PCA who share the same enthusiasm.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Arby’s.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Say yes to the opportunities that scare you.
What are you currently reading?
Cher’s Memoir
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I am very passionate about animal adoption. I volunteer at Atlanta Humane Society and Fulton County Animal Services and have great connections at several breed-specific rescues. If you are looking to adopt a dog, please let me know and I’d love to help!
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Amber Russo, Celeste Anderson, and Kacey Rask
