WILLIAM J LAVENDER
Summary
Multi-talented business leader bringing over 30 years' experience as a successful entrepreneur and financial services champion. Strategic problem solver and change manager. Visionary executive able to implement plans that meet current and future needs. Key expertise in the financial services industry.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
Work History
Assembly Line Worker
Adecco
Tulsa, Oklahoma
09.2025 - Current
- Operated machinery to assemble components with precision, ensuring high quality in final products.
- Followed safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment.
- Refurbished slot machines for Aristocrat network, enhancing functionality and extending product lifespan.
Golf Course Maintenance Crew
Cherokee Nation Businesses
Catoosa, OK
05.2022 - Current
- Operated various maintenance equipment to ensure efficient operations.
- Conducted regular inspections to identify maintenance needs and issues.
- Mixed chemical solutions according to safety guidelines and industry regulations.
- Operated spray equipment for pesticide applications in residential and commercial settings.
SE Regional
Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC
St. Simons Island, GA
04.2017 - 10.2020
- Led Southeast region business to exceed financial targets.
- Cultivated and maintained industry relationships and customer partnerships to capitalize on opportunities and maximize business success.
- Drove business development in a 12-state region in the SE US to success.
Regional Vice President
Securities America, Inc
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2012 - 04.2017
- Collaborated with Financial Institutions Division teams to improve service delivery effectiveness.
- Identified financial institution needs related to retail investment services, recruited talent, and implemented a retail investment program that benefited institution and its customers.
- Led regional sales strategies to enhance market penetration and client engagement.
- Collaborated with financial advisers to develop tailored investment solutions for clients.
- Oversaw compliance initiatives to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and policies.
Regional Director
Nationwide Securities
01.2006 - 04.2011
- Returned to Nationwide, completing over thirteen years in various capacities across the organization.
- Initially, was the only partner in Landmark Financial Services to join Nationwide after the acquisition (1992).
- Held various titles, including Sales Manager and Regional Wholesaler, culminating as Retirement Income Specialist, collaborating with generalist wholesalers and product specialists to support financial advisor teams across the western US.
- Participated in Investment Company Institute events to enhance industry knowledge.
Regional Vice President
Transamerica
Raton, Florida
01.2000 - 09.2003
- Managed wholesale operations across Florida and Georgia, enhancing client engagement and satisfaction.
- Wholesaled mutual funds, variable annuities, retirement plans, and life insurance, targeting retirement savings and income clients to meet their financial needs.
National Sales Manager
Western-Southern Life
Cincinnati, OH
01.1995 - 10.2000
- Promoted to National Sales Manager over the Financial Institutions Division after two years in account development, building the bank division to 10 external wholesalers, recruiting, training, and implementing all new regional wholesalers.
- Promoted to National Sales Manager over the Financial Institutions Division after two years in account development, building the bank division to 10 external wholesalers, recruiting, training, and implementing all new regional wholesalers.
- Built financial institution relationships across west and southwest US, enhancing regional market presence.
Partner / National Sales Director / Landmark
Davenport Financial Group
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
01.1985 - 01.1995
- Created one of the top bank-oriented investment firms in the U.S.
Education
Bachelor of Science - General
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK01-1983
Skills
- Assembly operations
- Machine operation
- Quality control
- Safety compliance
- Production efficiency
- Process improvement
- Planning and coordination
- Team collaboration
- Team building and leadership
- Business development
Additional Information
Member Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Holds FINRA licenses 6 and 63, with a state insurance license.
Timeline
Assembly Line Worker
Adecco
09.2025 - Current
Golf Course Maintenance Crew
Cherokee Nation Businesses
05.2022 - Current
SE Regional
Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC
04.2017 - 10.2020
Regional Vice President
Securities America, Inc
01.2012 - 04.2017
Regional Director
Nationwide Securities
01.2006 - 04.2011
Regional Vice President
Transamerica
01.2000 - 09.2003
National Sales Manager
Western-Southern Life
01.1995 - 10.2000
Partner / National Sales Director / Landmark
Davenport Financial Group
01.1985 - 01.1995
Bachelor of Science - General
Oklahoma State University