Heidi Sorvino has been a prominent figure in the specialty finance industry for over 35 years. As Chair of the Financial Restructuring and Bankruptcy Practice and Managing Partner at White and Williams LLP’s New York Office, Heidi has the unique experience of representing companies in distress and creditors affected by the restructuring or bankruptcy of a borrower. “I love a challenge,” she says. “When I first started, there were few female professionals in the industry so building a trustworthy reputation was my first priority.” Her impact is extensive, with involvement in complex Chapter 11 cases, non-bankruptcy workouts, asset sales and more. “One client told me, ‘I got my life and my business back because of you.’ That’s why we do this work.”
Her proudest accomplishment? “Launching the Financial Restructuring & Bankruptcy Practice in our New York office. When I arrived, we built it brick by brick and now have an outstanding team,” she says. Sorvino also emphasizes work-life balance, raising four children while growing her practice. “Seeing my children and the practice thrive make it all worthwhile.”
Heidi also pushes for more women to become rainmakers for their firm, mentoring through the ABI, IWIRC and TMA. “We need to encourage more women to market for themselves”, she said. Heidi used the example of learning to play golf after being previously excluded from business discussions that occurred on the greens, “While learning to play golf worked for me to help grow my business exponentially, it’s important you find something that works for you.”
She believes that visibility is crucial, emphasizing the importance of women being their own advocates. Her advice for future leaders, “This is an intimidating profession; however, when you assert yourself as a competent professional who demonstrates confidence, you are setting yourself up for success.”
