Empowering Excellence

Robin Leopold

EVP & Head of Human Resources,

JP Morgan

Empowering Excellence: The Leadership Journey of Robin Leopold

Leadership is not just about holding a position of authority; it’s about inspiring, empowering, and guiding others toward a common goal. In the diverse world of human resources, where the essence lies in nurturing talent and promoting organizational culture, Robin Leopold stands as an example of exceptional leadership. With a diverse experience spanning over three decades, Leopold’s journey from her initial beginnings at the American Stock Exchange to becoming the Executive Vice President and Head of Human Resources at JPMorgan Chase is a testament to her continuous dedication, resilience, and vision.

A business management psychology graduate from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Robin Leopold embarked on her career in 1986 as an HR at the American Stock Exchange.” This laid the foundation for her interest in understanding human behavior and organizational dynamics, which fueled further growth.

Her illustrious career encompasses more than 21 years at Citi and its related companies, where she served various roles within Human Resources. Leopold’s diverse expertise shaped her into a seasoned HR professional, from recruitment to employee relations to generalist functions. Moreover, she served as the Head of Human Resources for the wealth management businesses at Citi, including Smith Barney, the Private Bank, and Investment Research.

In 2010, Leopold joined JPMorgan Chase, marking a significant transition in her career trajectory. Over the years, she ascended through the ranks, holding important positions within the organization’s Human Resources domain. During her tenure, she headed crucial initiatives, including leading the Human Resources team during Chase’s Home Lending business transformation.

One of Leopold’s significant career milestones includes her appointment as the Head of Human Resources for J.P. Morgan’s Corporate & Investment Bank. This role underscored her ability to navigate complex organizational landscapes while promoting employee engagement and development.

Her promotion to the role of Executive Vice President and Head of Human Resources for JPMorgan Chase further solidified her stature as a visionary leader. Leading one of the world’s largest financial institutions, Leopold played an important role in shaping the organization’s talent strategy and promoting a culture of innovation.

A deep commitment to people-centricity and organizational excellence lies at the heart of Robin Leopold’s leadership philosophy. Her leadership style is characterized by empathy, integrity, and determined pursuit of excellence. By promoting a culture of trust and collaboration, Leopold empowers her team to utilize their full potential, driving the utmost business results. 

Throughout her journey, Robin Leopold has gained valuable insights into the dynamics of leadership and organizational dynamics. She recognizes the power of resilience in overcoming challenges and setbacks, viewing them as opportunities for growth and learning.

Her commitment to continuous improvement and self-reflection underscores her humility and willingness to adapt to changes at the right time. Leopold acknowledges the importance of work-life balance and prioritizing personal well-being despite the rise in demands of a changing corporate environment.

Like any leader, Robin Leopold has faced various challenges and setbacks throughout her career. Whether navigating organizational transitions or leading through periods of uncertainty, she has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in overcoming adversity.

One of her notable challenges includes leading the Human Resources team during a significant business transformation at JPMorgan Chase’s Home Lending division. Despite the complexities, Leopold’s strategic vision and leadership ensured a smooth transition while minimizing potential disruptions to the workforce.

Robin Leopold’s contributions to the field of human resources have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. One notable recognition is that she was named the Top Employer for GenZ by Hnadshake’s early talent awards.  Her leadership acumen and creative thinking have driven organizational success and positioned JPMorgan Chase as a global talent management and employee engagement leader.

Looking ahead, Leopold sees a future where JPMorgan Chase continues to attract, retain, and develop top talent from diverse backgrounds, driving sustainable growth and delivering value to stakeholders.

Focusing on harnessing the power of technology and data analytics, Leopold seeks to use new tools and methodologies to enhance the employee experience and drive business performance.

We are building a culture of care, trust, and total wellness. This elevated approach reflects our ongoing commitment to enriching the lives of employees, empowering them to achieve their aspirations both at work and in their daily lives. 

Robin Leopold’s leadership journey sets an example of visionary leadership, resilience, and empathy. From a normal HR at the American Stock Exchange to Executive Vice President and Head of Human Resources at JPMorgan Chase, Leopold’s story inspires many. As she continues to drive organizational success, her visionary leadership is a testament to her aim to shape a brighter future for everyone.