WILMA’s Leadership Institute: Meet Emma Maynard
Snapshot of this year's Leadership Institute members
WILMA’s 2026 Leadership Institute, an annual nine-month program, gives area women the opportunity to learn from leaders in the region, visit a range of local companies, and serve as each other’s personal board of directors.
WILMA’s Leadership Institute, an annual nine-month program, gives area women the opportunity to learn from leaders in the region, visit a range of local companies, and serve as each other’s personal board of directors. The program is part of the WILMA Leadership Initiative, created to empower women to lead with confidence and purpose. Meet institute member EMMA MAYNARD.
Emma Maynard
Title: Recruiter
Company: Live Oak Bank
How long have you been with your current employer? 4 years
Alma Mater: James Madison University
Prior career experience: With 18+ years of experience, I love helping people find their next step. At Live Oak Bank, I lead early‑talent recruiting, run our internship program, and support a wide range of recruitment across the bank. Before that, I supported grad students at UNCW and spent several years at James Madison University helping students and alumni grow through career and professional development. I got my start in HR at Rosetta Stone, and no matter the role, my goal is always the same: create connections, spark clarity, and help people move forward with confidence.
Current job responsibilities: I connect talented people with meaningful roles across Live Oak Bank. I lead early‑talent recruiting, oversee our high‑energy internship program, and support hiring bank‑wide, all while making sure the experience for both candidates and our internal teams feels clear, warm, and people‑first.
Hobbies: I’m happiest when I’m moving or outdoors, on the Peloton, at Hotworx, or soaking up the sun. I love thrifting, supporting small businesses, and traveling anywhere warm and tropical. Family time usually means kids’ soccer games or cheering on my husband’s small‑business races and events, and nothing beats summertime in Wilmington, posting up at the beach is my happy place.
To learn more about WILMA’s Leadership Institute and Initiative, go to https://www.wilmamag.com/leadership/
Want more WILMA? Click here to sign up for WILMA newsletters and announcements
