What does it really take to simplify complex systems in a world where financial services, customer expectations, and technology evolve faster than most teams can keep up? And as AI unlocks real-time insights and new opportunities, how do leaders balance speed, strategy, and the courage to rethink what’s always been done?
In this episode of Rethink Change, Lily Isham, General Manager, Financial Solutions at Conduent, explains how understanding the full process gives leaders the power to simplify it, move faster, and create better outcomes for both clients and employees. She takes us inside the evolving world of financial services, where customer expectations shift overnight, and AI offers unprecedented clarity through real-time data.
Lily also reveals how generalists uncover hidden opportunities, why hiring people who think differently expands your blind spots, and how due diligence builds the credibility needed to drive meaningful change. Her story is ultimately about embracing constant evolution and learning to see change not as a disruption, but as your most reliable competitive advantage.
Lily Isham is an adaptable and results-driven general manager who leads two software businesses managing technology, data, and client outcomes. Currently overseeing an $80M portfolio at Conduent—including Legal eDiscovery, Cyber Data Triage, and Loan Servicing—Lily oversees all financial management, product, go-to-market strategy, and operational scale across industries, including banking, automotive, law firms, and start-ups.
Her leadership also includes large-scale transformation, project and portfolio management, global operational teams, and complex cross-functional initiatives. Lily has a proven track record of developing and executing strategic initiatives that unlock savings, new revenue streams, expand partnerships, and accelerate product innovation in CX, Financial Services, and Government.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro to Guest: Lily Isham
01:17 Understanding Conduet and Lily’s Role in Supporting This Industry
02:37 Challenges in Financial Services and Customer Expectations
05:03 Simplifying Complex Processes
07:29 Different Types of Competitors and Secret Sauce of Conduet
10:14 The Value in Being a Generalist and Finding Opportunities
17:43 Navigating Change and AI Implementation
21:43 Leadership and Team Dynamics
28:29 The Major Differences Between Mentorship and Sponsors
31:25 Final Thoughts on Value Proposition and Relevant Branding
Topics Discussed:
Connect with Lily Isham:
About Rethink Change:
When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.
Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations reveal what actually works, enabling you to think differently and act smarter.
Get Connected with Rethink Change: