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Aimeé Ortega Mata, Financial Analyst, GM Financial 

What brought you to the asset-backed finance and leasing industry? 

I am originally from Mexico, where my professional background was in logistics. When I moved to Canada eight years ago, I made a career change into finance, and I’ve loved the finance world ever since. I was drawn to the asset-backed finance and leasing industry because it combines the analytical rigor of finance with the tangible value of real-world assets. Early on, I saw how secured lending can unlock opportunities for both businesses and consumers, especially in sectors like automotive, where financing often drives innovation and growth. That inspired me to dive deeper into understanding the full lifecycle of these transactions, from risk assessment to portfolio management, and how they create value for all stakeholders. 

What do you like about working in this industry? 

What I enjoy most is the constant evolution of the industry, particularly with the integration of technology and artificial intelligence into decision-making processes. At GM Financial, I get to apply financial modeling, data analysis, and performance tracking not just to understand past performance, but to help shape future strategy. It’s rewarding to see how our work enables customers to access the assets they need, while also contributing to the growth of the business. The balance of strategic thinking, data-driven insights, and real-world impact is what keeps me engaged and motivated. 

How do you overcome the challenges you face at work? 

I’m a very optimistic person, and I believe that challenges are opportunities to grow. When difficulties arise, I focus on maintaining a positive outlook and encouraging my team to see setbacks as learning experiences. I make an effort to understand each team member’s strengths and weaknesses, because in challenging situations, leveraging those strengths strategically can make all the difference. By aligning tasks with individual capabilities, we can overcome obstacles more effectively and often achieve even better results than expected. I’ve found that a combination of optimism, teamwork, and adaptability not only helps us resolve issues but also strengthens the team in the long run. 

What does it mean to you to be a leader, and how do you lead others in your organization?  

I have always believed that if you want to create strong teams, you have to start by leading by example. Leadership, to me, is not about a title, it’s about lifting others while growing together as a team. I make it a priority to be approachable, supportive, and transparent, so people feel comfortable sharing ideas and challenges. I love encouraging team members to keep learning, take on new responsibilities, and advance in their careers. By fostering a culture of mutual respect, continuous improvement, and shared success, I aim to inspire others to perform at their best and to see leadership as something we all can practice in our own way. 

What would be your dream role in 5-10 years when you are closer to becoming a veteran of the industry? 

Later in my career, I would love to become an AVP of Finance. My focus right now is to learn as much as I can, both to deepen my technical expertise and to grow personally and professionally into the leader I aspire to be. I believe this journey is built on a foundation of continuous hard work, dedication, and the guidance of great mentors. By embracing every challenge as a learning opportunity and staying committed to excellence, I’m confident I can reach that goal and make a meaningful impact at the executive level. 

What is your number one travel destination, and why? 

My number one travel destination is Mexico, because it’s where I am from, and every time I go, it just feels like home. Mexico is such a rich and vibrant country, from the incredible food and warm weather to the friendly people and stunning beaches. It truly has it all, and every visit is a perfect mix of reconnecting with my roots and rediscovering the beauty and diversity of the place I’m proud to call home.