For nearly four decades, Diane Wagner has been quietly transforming how specialty finance companies do business — through technology, grit and a refusal to accept the limits of traditional career paths.

Wagner, now senior vice president of information technology and project manager at Republic Business Credit, began her career in corporate retail buying and manufacturing. She didn’t have a formal background in tech or finance — but that didn’t stop her.

“I taught myself everything,” Wagner says. “When I saw a gap, I figured out how to close it. I’ve always believed in making systems work smarter.”

That mindset helped Wagner pioneer automation and data-sharing initiatives that led to the development of ANSI/X12/EDI standards, now widely used in electronic business documentation. Her career has been defined by finding ways to use technology to boost efficiency and streamline operations — especially in times of upheaval.

She’s led companies through mergers, relocations and tech overhauls. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped Republic Business Credit shift to fully remote operations without missing a beat. “That was a defining moment,” she says. “We didn’t just survive — we kept things moving at full speed.”

Wagner is also a passionate advocate for women in finance, mentoring younger professionals and pushing for sponsorship programs to drive representation.

“We can’t afford to wait for change,” she says. “We have to build it — one opportunity at a time.”

Her volunteer work with organizations like NOW, Emily’s List and the Secured Finance Network reflects her commitment to empowering women across industries.

At 38 years into her career, Wagner shows no signs of slowing down. “I’ve never stopped learning,” she says. “Curiosity and resilience — that’s what keeps you relevant.”

In an industry often slow to evolve, Wagner’s career proves that innovation doesn’t just come from new tools — it comes from people willing to push boundaries.