Member Spotlight | Tony Bartell

ACG WI Member Since: 1996 ACG WI Involvement: Board Member (since 2012), Treasurer (2012-2016)

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Why did you join ACG?

I joined ACG Wisconsin 25 years ago shortly after I became a Business Development Officer in banking.  At the time, I was being mentored by another BDO in my group, Jack Sturm, who was the president of the ACG Chapter in St. Louis.  Jack encouraged me to become a member of ACG WI due to the impact that ACG had on his career. 

How has ACG WI helped you in your career?
ACG WI has given me a direct window into the world of Corporate M&A and Business Development.  The knowledge and contacts that ACG WI has provided me in my career has been an invaluable asset that I can share with my Corporate Clients who are looking to grow their business through acquisitions or enhancements to their growth strategy.

What has your ACG membership meant to you?
My membership in ACG WI has given me lifelong friendships with some of the most talented and inspirational business leaders in Wisconsin.  It has given me the knowledge and confidence to provide stronger business advice to my clients.

What lessons have you learned during the pandemic that you think you will carry over in the long term?
There have been numerous lessons learned during the pandemic, but the one that I will continue to carry over into the long term is the need to continually support our communities, families, and work associates in our day-to-day actions.

What do you think are the biggest challenges your industry will face in the next 5 years, and what actions is your business taking to position it for success in the future?
Progress and success in financial services in the future will not be measured solely in economic terms.  The heart of BMO’s purpose is to Boldly Grow the Good in Business and Life.  BMO’s landmark initiative called Zero Barriers to Inclusion sets out concrete actions to address racial inequality and create a more inclusive economy.  Technology will play a critical role in the goal of returning to a more normal life.  BMO has been driving digital transformation for more than a decade and has accelerated its pace in providing clients with safe and more efficient electronic payment and borrowing tools.

What do you do for fun?
I enjoy an active personal life with my family and friends.  We enjoy outdoor activities such as: hiking, running, biking, skiing, golf and travel.  We are movie, concert and theater fans and look forward to being able to attend these group events very soon.

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would like to learn to speak Italian and Catalan so I could speak to our exchange student’s parents.

What is the best book you have read this past year?
When Pride Still Mattered, A Life of Vince Lombardi, by David Maraniss