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Chances are, Bob Duggan has been to a lot more concerts than you have. And played a lot more hockey, too. Those passions have been alongside him for his entire 30-year career in the financial services industry, long after he set aside his plan to become a teacher. Read on to learn more about Bob, how he is able to juggle multiple tasks and priorities at the same time, and how he starts his day to give himself the best chance for success.
Name: Bob Duggan
Job Title: VP and GM of Financial and Consumer Markets
Company: RevSpring
Length of time at current company: 1 year
Length of time in industry: 30 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I started my career in 1996 at HSBC Bank in Buffalo, N.Y., working evenings while finishing my teaching degree at Buffalo State College. In March 1997, I joined an upstart local agency, Account Solutions Group (Firstsource), and never looked back. I pivoted from teaching to agency leadership, quickly found my passion, and fell in love with leading teams and managing client relationships.
What is your career highlight so far?
I’ve been fortunate to have several meaningful milestones, but being named Chief Operating Officer at American Coradius International (ACI) at age 30 stands out. Being trusted by our ownership team to lead a turnaround, expand the organization, and drive performance was something I never took for granted.
When or how are you most productive?
Early mornings. I’m a very early riser and use that time to plan and attack the day. Starting with a clear plan, executing with discipline, and then setting up the next day for success is what keeps me productive.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
There are too many to name. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredible people throughout my career. I’m grateful to count many of them as mentors, friends, and partners who have shaped how I lead today.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I don’t think in those terms, but I do pride myself on being a strong multitasker. I can manage multiple priorities at once without losing sight of the broader strategic objectives.
What do you like most about this industry?
The people. This industry is filled with individuals who genuinely care about doing the right thing for consumers and clients. From frontline teams to executive leadership, it’s a people-first environment built on trust and shared purpose.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
Earlier in my career, I wished for greater representation of women and minority leaders. We’ve made meaningful progress over the past 20 years, but there’s always more we can do to continue building a more inclusive industry.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
If money were no object, I’d own a coffee house centered around community, bringing people together through great coffee and live music.
Describe a typical work day.
I start with a clear plan, connect with my team to understand where I can support them, and spend time working with our customers and partners to move key initiatives forward. It’s about alignment, execution, and constant progress.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Taylor Swift
What is the best advice you have ever received?
“If you aren’t growing, you’re shrinking or dying.” It was originally shared in a business context, but it applies just as much to life.
What are you currently reading?
“Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less” by Greg McKeown (recommended by Tim Collins)
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
Outside of work, I’m passionate about live music, ice hockey, and giving back to the community. I play hockey 3-4X per week and have been to nearly 500 concerts in my life.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
John Watson, Scott Carter, Jamie Welsh
