Beyond the Title: Brandi Gonzalez

Brandi Gonzalez (Wisconsin’s Most Influential Leaders, 2025) is strategic people director at UW Credit Union, which she joined in 2022 as the next step in a long career in human resources. Over the past 25 years she’s worked her way up through roles at Milwaukee firms like CapTel, Huf North America, Horizon Home Care and Hospice, and Fiserv. She holds a degree in management from Cardinal Stritch University.

What does presence before performance mean to you – and how do you stay grounded when the pressure to perform is high?

For me, presence before performance means showing up as my best and whole self—being fully engaged, listening, and connecting with others before worrying about results or outcomes. It’s about being intentional in every moment and showing up in the moments that matter, not just checking boxes or meeting metrics. When the pressure is on, I remind myself that the kind of impact I want to make starts with being present, tuning in to what’s happening around me, supporting those I work with, and staying true to my values.

To stay grounded, I focus on what matters most—my purpose and the people I’m here to serve. I take time to pause, reflect, and lean on my support system when things get overwhelming. I’ve learned that if I’m not present, I can’t perform at my best. So, I give myself permission to slow down, get better about asking for help, and remember that leadership is about so much more than achievement.

What’s the best advice you’ve received from a mentor?

The best advice I have gotten from a mentor was simple but powerful: don’t doubt yourself. Imposter syndrome is real, it can make you question whether you’ve truly earned your place or know as much as you actually do. My mentor reminded me that self-doubt only holds you back, and that building real confidence in yourself has the potential to change everything. When you start to trust your own abilities and believe you belong, you show up differently and make a bigger impact. That advice has stuck with me and helped me push through tough moments more than once.

Tell us about a time you had to lead before there was consensus – when you were the only one who saw it, believed it or were willing to act. What gave you the courage to move anyway?

There have been times when I have recognized gaps in equity regarding certain groups not having access to the same resources or opportunities as others. At first, I was the only one raising the issue; it wasn’t on the radar for others, or they were not vocal about their observations, and there was not a great appetite for change.

Despite the lack of consensus, I persisted in different ways. I started by asking questions of key partners to surface the topic and encouraged others to think more critically about our practices. I bubbled the issue up through formal channels, sharing data and stories that highlighted the impact of inequity. I also sought out allies, partnering with colleagues who shared my values and could help amplify the message.

There were moments when progress felt slow, but continuing to advocate for equity was the right thing to do. My deep belief in fairness and the conviction that everyone deserves access to equitable opportunities pushed me forward. Over time, my persistence has paid off, moving the needle in small, but meaningful ways.

What’s one question every new leader should ask during their first 100 days and why?

How can I use my role to advocate for those who haven’t traditionally had a seat at the table?

Who’s in your “corner” – that voice of wisdom you trust when things get tough? How do you build and protect that circle?

The voices I trust most when things get tough are my mom and my husband. My mom is the embodiment of grit and wisdom. Her resilience and practical advice have guided me through every challenge, and her real-life experience has been more valuable than any degree. She’s always been my compass, never steering me wrong. My husband is my anchor. His insights and grounded perspective help me see things clearly, especially when life feels overwhelming.

I build and protect my circle by nurturing these relationships, making time for honest conversations, showing appreciation, and leaning on them when I need support. 

Leadership can be exhausting. What practices or boundaries help you avoid burnout and stay aligned with your purpose?

For me, leadership is a journey, not a destination. To avoid burnout and stay true to my purpose, I focus on embracing the process rather than chasing perfection. Every experience, especially the tough ones, becomes a tool that shapes who I am as a leader. I set boundaries by allowing myself to learn and refine. The most impactful leaders I’ve observed are those who keep growing, remain curious, and lead with humility. By staying committed to continuous growth and self-reflection, I’m able to stay grounded and aligned with what truly matters.

Clout fades. Calling lasts. How do you stay anchored in impact over recognition? 

I stay connected to my purpose. While my work may not be saving lives – I’m not a doctor—I view every challenge, interaction, and project as a chance to create positive change and lift others up. If I can know that I’ve helped someone, whether in a big or small way, that’s what truly matters to me.

What’s a leadership value you refuse to compromise even when it’s inconvenient?

Integrity is the leadership value I will never compromise, even when it’s inconvenient. Upholding honesty and ethical standards aren’t always the easiest path—they often require extra effort and may not align with popular opinion. Yet, doing what’s right in every situation is the principle that guides me, no matter the circumstances.

What book, quote, lyric or even scripture captures how you lead or how you live?
“Don’t count the moments, make the moments count.”

When life gets heavy or leadership feels overwhelming, what’s something you turn to: music, travel or cultural connection that helps you feel like yourself again?

When life feels overwhelming, I find strength in the company of those closest to me. Whether it’s a Spring Break getaway with my family or a simple day spent with my mom and sister, being present with the people who matter most helps me reconnect and find peace. Taking time to pause and appreciate these moments grounds me, reminding me of what truly makes a difference.

Who is your favorite sports team?

Originating from Gretna, Louisiana, my favorite team is the New Orleans Saints of course! Who Dat?!

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. We host our families at our home, and enjoy a loud, full house, complete with delicious food, lots of laughs, music and great company!