Birmingham-based leader honored for team and community building
Barbara Mulligan still lives in her hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. Her commitment to the city is equal to her dedication to her team and the clients she serves as the director of middle market banking.
The Birmingham Business Journal recognized her work and included her in the annual 40 Under 40 class’s hometown leaders. Her leadership style has impacted her team and community through the support and industry expertise she provides.
“Being recognized as one of the top 40 professionals in the city is humbling and inspiring,” she says. The list includes rising stars of local businesses who contribute to the growth of the city’s economy.
Mulligan’s open-door policy has created an environment of trust. Her commitment – inside and outside her job – was also recently honored with the Synovus Circle of Excellence Chairman’s Award. The award recognizes team members who represent the bank’s culture and focus on leadership, client experience, community impact, business impact and partnership.
Allison Eden, wholesale banking relationship manager, is a member of Mulligan’s team, and she’s had a front-row seat to her leadership style. “With Barbara as my manager and the leadership at Synovus, we have all the tools and resources we need to be best in class,” she says. “She promotes a culture of collaboration, and her leadership style creates camaraderie and motivation within the team, driving us to achieve our best results.”
Mulligan describes the moment she accepted the award meant “everything” to her. “It was validation that my work matters. It motivates me to keep going and to give my best every day,” she says.
“If you don’t understand, ask questions. If you want a new opportunity, ask to be considered for it. If you believe you deserve a raise or promotion, ask for it. You are your own advocate, personally and professionally.”
Mulligan started at Synovus two years ago as a relationship manager on the middle market team. As the director, she’s deeply committed to giving the best to her team. “I have an incredible team, and their dedication and hard work drives me to deliver,” she says.
“The values that guide my professional responsibilities also inspire my community involvement,” she emphasizes. Her service on the Junior Board of Birmingham Zoo, membership in the Downtown Rotary Club of Birmingham and role on The Red Mountain Theatre Co. Board of Directors reflect her personal values and enhance her professional skills. These roles provide her with unique perspectives and opportunities to network.
Mulligan wants the next generation of leaders to experience the enthusiasm and love in their careers that she has for hers. Staying true to her values, keeping an eye on what’s important and giving herself grace helps her remain grounded.
“I had a mentor tell me that mistakes and failures are opportunities to learn, and we should embrace them,” she recalls. “It’s easy to get down on yourself when you make a mistake or fail. We’re all human, and we'll make mistakes. The best thing we can do is reflect, learn and move on.”
Mulligan’s advice to women professionals is simple yet powerful – always advocate for yourself. “If you don’t understand, ask questions. If you want a new opportunity, ask to be considered for it. If you believe you deserve a raise or promotion, ask for it,” she says. “You are your own advocate, personally and professionally.”
Read more about how Synovus team members are enabling people to reach their full potential.