Episode 38 — Managing Director of Strategy And Innovation At Wells Fargo Advisors, Joe Nadreau '93

On today's episode of The People of Penn State, we're joined by Joe Nadreau (1993 - Smeal), who recently retired from his position of Managing Director of Strategy and Innovation at Wells Fargo Advisors. Joe discussed a variety of topics on the show, including being a part of the ROTC program at Penn State, the importance of mentors and mentees, driving strategy and innovation at Wells Fargo, privacy and cyber security at the company, what his retirement plans are, and much more! In addition to his core responsibilities of driving corporate strategy and ongoing innovation, Joe was responsible for the firm’s independent advisor businesses (Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, First Clearing, and the launch of the RIA model). He also lead the Digital & Automated Investing group, which consisted of the self-directed (WellsTrade) team, and the Digital Advice (Intuitive Investor®) offerings.  His group was responsible for the continued evolution of the business platforms for the company’s financial advisors and clients. He also led the Firm’s merger integration activities consisting of 12 separate integrations, including Prudential Securities, AG Edwards, and Wachovia Securities.  Joe is on multiple nonprofit boards in the St. Louis community, including serving as chairman of the American Red Cross in St. Louis, and he served as the executive sponsor of the Wells Fargo Advisors United Way campaign. Connect with Joe on Facebook and LinkedIn. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Learn more about the Penn State Alumni Association: alumni.psu.edu. Follow the Penn State Alumni Association on:FacebookTwitterInstagramLinkedIn-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps: 0:00 — Intro1:25 — Joe's Penn State story2:32 — Being a part of ROTC at Penn State3:15 — Other student activities4:37 — Initial career goals6:08 — Ad Read #1 - Penn State Bakery7:13 — Importance of a mentor9:20 — Career progression after Penn State12:46 — Keeping up with evolving technologies 15:29 — What drives innovation?17:33 — What's next for Joe after retirement 20:35 — Privacy and cyber security at Wells Fargo22:24 — Giving back to the St. Louis community through non-profits 24:23 — Change management solutions27:00 — Ad Read #2 - Alumni Shop28:00 — Lightning Round Q&A31:10 — Outro32:21 — Alma MaterFor more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com