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Hillary Varvel is one of those people who makes you feel bad about yourself because of how much she has accomplished and because of how much she is making of her life. Reading up to 100 books a year, trips to Spain and the Bahamas — this year alone — to indulge in her love of travel and fine food, and starting each day with a run … talk about living life to the fullest. Read on to learn more about Hillary, her systematic approach to getting the most out of each day, and why she “genuinely” enjoys reading regulations.
Name: Hillary Varvel
Job Title: Head of Disputes Management
Company: InDebted USA, Inc.
Length of time at current company: 6 months
Length of time in industry: Over 15 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
In January 2010, I joined PRA Group, Inc. as a Corporate Curriculum Designer. My close work with front-line agents gave me a unique perspective on how system design impacted day-to-day operations. This sparked a growing interest in the strategic implications of programming decisions, ultimately leading to a transition into Strategic Project Management. As the company evolved, I was offered opportunities to lead Compliance-related initiatives, which expanded my responsibilities across various aspects of the Compliance Management System (CMS) as well as the Project Management Office (PMO).
What is your career highlight so far?
At one point in my career, every member of my team was someone I had either hired, promoted, or both. I take great pride in developing talent and creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to take ownership of their ideas and drive their own success. Watching my team grow and achieve on their own terms has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my leadership journey.
When or how are you most productive?
I’m an early riser, and after logging a few miles and enjoying a couple cups of tea, I’m energized and ready to dive into the day. I like to start by tackling the to-do list I left for myself the night before — it helps me hit the ground running with clarity and purpose.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Diana Macon has built an exceptional career at PRA Group, Inc., marked by versatility and continuous growth. She began in an Operations role, successfully transitioned into Compliance leadership, embraced a new challenge by developing expertise in Speech Analytics, and later reinvented herself once again to contribute in Regulatory Relations. Throughout her professional journey, Diana has also dedicated herself to personal growth and the rewarding role of raising her beautiful daughters.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I wouldn’t claim to be better than everyone else at it, but I genuinely enjoy reading regulations and working with business partners to interpret and apply them in ways that mitigate risk to an acceptable level while still maximizing business opportunities. Those who’ve worked with me would likely say I’m not one to quickly say, “No, you can’t,” but more inclined to offer, “Maybe not that way — how about this instead?” I bring the same thoughtful creativity to the kitchen, too — I’m also a pretty darn good cook and baker.
What do you like most about this industry?
During my time at Truist Bank, peers from upstream divisions — such as originations and non-debt servicing — were often surprised by how well I understood their regulations and processes. I’d explain that when you work in the default space, having a solid grasp of upstream activity is essential for effectively resolving — or even preventing — downstream issues. One of the things I appreciate about this industry is how dynamic it is: you’re constantly exposed to new challenges and perspectives, which keeps the work engaging and far from routine.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
I know it’s something many people say, but for me, it truly is the complexity of the regulations that stands out. An initiative might seem like a great idea on the surface—intended to benefit consumers—but once you dig into the regulatory framework, it often becomes clear that the long-term, downstream impact can be quite different.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I’m especially passionate about food insecurity and traveling, and I’ve often imagined finding a way to combine the two — perhaps by raising awareness and advocating for change in food desert areas around the world. Then again, I’ve also always thought that being a cheesemonger would be a (deliciously) fun path to explore. Whether it’s through meaningful impact or culinary adventure, I’m drawn to opportunities that nourish both people and purpose.
Describe a typical work day.
When I start my day, I first scan my calendar, Slack messages, and email — in that order — to identify any urgent issues or high-priority topics that need immediate attention. If there’s nothing pressing, or after addressing what I can right away, I typically dedicate at least 30 minutes to catching up on industry news and events — often through resources like the Daily Digest — so I can approach new challenges with current insights top of mind.
Throughout the day, I stay in close contact with my team and partners, checking in on workloads and the status of ongoing projects. I contribute to asynchronous collaboration documents or set up meetings as needed to keep momentum going. At the end of the day, I make it a point to create a focused to-do list for the next few days, ensuring my priorities stay aligned with planned work and team goals.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Travel and food are two of my greatest passions — and honestly, I rarely feel guilty about indulging in either. This year alone, I’ve traveled to Spain, the Bahamas, and several closer long-weekend destinations, with plenty more adventures on the horizon. Whenever my husband and I plan a trip, we always carve out time to explore the local food scene, researching restaurants and regional cuisines and making reservations at places we’re excited to try. We’ve even planned entire trips around a single dining experience — like our visit to Frederick, Maryland, just to enjoy a meal at Chef Bryan Voltaggio’s restaurant. Totally worth it — mmm.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Write your purpose in pen and your path in pencil.
What are you currently reading?
This changes almost daily as I’m in a book club and read between 70 and 100 books a year. Currently it’s both “How to End a Love Story” by Yulin Kuang and “Build the Life You Want” by Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
Most of my former team members would agree that I’m always happy — and honestly, I really enjoy — when someone wants to pick my brain or bounce ideas around. Fair warning: I like to laugh, so you can expect a few jokes or side stories to pop up along the way.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Edmon Hill – PRA Group, Inc.
Laura White – InDebted
Claudia Carrion – Truist Bank
