Elizabeth Henthorne manages risk governance for Washington Trust Company, overseeing corporate insurance, legal analysis, and day-to-day legal questions that help the retail banking department serve their customers effectively. Her role sits at the intersection of law, risk management, and practical business operations, ensuring the bank operates safely while meeting customer needs.

Elizabeth’s background is in law, and she has successfully leveraged that training throughout her banking career. With specialized training in privacy law and related issues, she has expanded her skills into various risk-related areas, enhancing her value and impact across the organization. When she joined Washington Trust, she came with a law degree but no other banking qualifications—and she’s grateful the bank gave her an opportunity. Today, she advises and adds value to many areas of the bank from legal, compliance, and risk perspectives.

Elizabeth is half Ecuadorian and continues to practice her Spanish, as half her family speaks only Spanish. While she wouldn’t describe herself as fluent, maintaining her language skills keeps her connected to her heritage and family.

Elizabeth believes banking benefits from applicants with diverse backgrounds and varied skill sets. No matter what expertise or experience someone brings, banks value different perspectives and training. Her own journey proves that a non-traditional banking background can lead to a meaningful and impactful career in the industry, where diverse talents contribute to the organization’s success in unexpected and valuable ways.