In continuing to celebrate Illinois’ women business leaders for Women’s History Month, we’re elevating Maggie McGuire O’Brien, managing director co-head, Chicago, J.P. Morgan Private Bank and Illinois EDC board member in this Economic Drivers feature. She’s a lifelong Illinoisan (apart from four years of college): “When I left, I thought I’d never come back. I quickly realized what I had taken for granted. I returned to Illinois right after graduation and have been here ever since!”
What inspired your career path and industry involvement?
My career began in commercial banking, inspired by the incredible range of businesses built across the Midwest and the chance to partner with entrepreneurs as they grew. Helping many of those owners navigate exits sparked a deeper interest in the personal and financial decisions that follow major liquidity events. Today, in private banking, I work with individuals to plan thoughtfully for those moments and manage their wealth in alignment with their long‑term goals.
As a woman leader in your field, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Working in a historically male‑dominated industry has come with its share of challenges, particularly early in my career—being in the minority, learning to advocate for myself, and navigating moments of self‑doubt that many professionals experience but don’t always name. Over time, I’ve learned to push past risk aversion, trust my judgment, and speak up with conviction. Those experiences ultimately strengthened my leadership style and reinforced the importance of confidence, preparation, and supporting others along the way.
Can you share a key moment in your career that shaped who you are today?
Early in my career, a mentor asked me an unexpected question while preparing to introduce me for an award: “What would you want someone to say at your funeral?” I was caught off guard—and realized my mind was blank beyond a few basic roles. It made me pause and recognize how focused I had been on achievement and momentum, without stepping back to think about purpose. That moment reshaped how I define success and continues to guide how I show up—as a leader, a colleague, and a person.
Who are (or have been) some of your mentors, role models, or inspirations?
There are more than I could possibly list but the top 5 have to be: my dad; my mom; two inspirational leaders at JPMorganChase—Elaine Agather (look her up to see the most fabulous outfits ever) and Mary Erdoes…and, of course, Taylor Swift.
What does success look like to you—professionally and/or personally?
To me, success means realizing my potential at work and using my role to create meaningful impact—on clients, colleagues, and the Chicago community more broadly. It also means being fulfilled at home: raising happy, well‑adjusted children who feel deeply loved and supported, and sharing life with a partner who exemplifies what it means to be a true teammate. Ultimately, success is living in the moment, appreciating how fortunate I’ve been, and using that perspective to do good for others.
How does being in Illinois contribute to your success as a woman leader (if it does)?
Illinois—particularly Chicago—has played a meaningful role in my growth as a leader. The Midwest business community values substance, relationships, and follow‑through, which has allowed me to lead authentically and focus on impact rather than optics. I’ve also benefited from a strong network of collaborative leaders—men and women—who are invested in building inclusive teams and supporting one another, which has created an environment where I’ve been able to grow, contribute, and lead with confidence.
What do you love most about living and working in Illinois?
Chicago is an incredibly underrated city—it has everything to offer—but what I appreciate most is the people. The community is smart, authentic, and grounded, and that character defines how business gets done here and why it’s been such a rewarding place to build a career.
What makes Illinois a strong place for women business leaders?
Illinois offers a business environment that values results, authenticity, and collaboration—qualities that create real opportunity for women leaders. The strong sense of community and willingness to support one another have made it a place where I’ve been able to grow, contribute, and lead in a way that feels both impactful and genuine.
What policies, programs, or networks in Illinois have supported your professional growth or your organization’s mission?
The Daniel Burnham Program via Leadership Greater Chicago was an incredible experience. I’ve also benefitted greatly from the introductions gleaned from my membership in The Chicago Network, The Commercial Club of Chicago, and The Chicago Club. Finally, my board work is focused on Illinois EDC and Chicago Innovation, two organizations I feel are really fueling the business growth in our state.
How do you or your organization support your local community or underrepresented groups?
We’re committed to increasing economic opportunities for residents across the Chicago area. Since 2019, we’ve contributed over $200 million in philanthropic capital to more than 600 nonprofits. Additionally, we’ve provided more than $23 million to help entrepreneurs start, run and grow their businesses. We are proud to invest in Chicago and help to drive economic growth for all.
Are there any initiatives or organizations in Illinois that you’re proud to support?
JPMorganChase is reinforcing its commitment to Chicago with a major investment in Chase Tower, which we’re transforming into a sustainable, state-of-the-art workplace that will serve future generations of Chicagoans and boost economic impact citywide. As one of the city’s largest private employers, we are proud of the significant contributions we’ve made to the local economy over our 160+ years here.
What inspires you to continue to affect change in your world?
I’m a firm believer that “to she whom much is given, much is expected.” I try to live up to mantra every day.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you personally?
Women’s History Month is a reminder of how far we have come and how far we still must go. It is important to step back and acknowledge that.
What would you say to a young woman professional considering launching or relocating their career to Illinois?
Illinois delivers what few places can: the energy and opportunity of a major city, exceptional talent and industry diversity, and a culture that’s authentic and grounded—all anchored by a central location and a cost of living that allows people to thrive professionally and personally.
Favorite Illinois historical figure:
Abraham Lincoln (who, coincidentally, was a client of one of our predecessor banks in Springfield, Illinois)
Favorite book of all time:
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Best business advice you’ve ever given (or received):
No one has it all figured out.
RELATED POSTS
