Elizabeth Barnhill

Elizabeth Barnhill is currently a manager for Pricing & Margins at Options Clearing Corporation (OCC). The OCC is the only clearing house for all U.S. equity option trades. It manages risk for those involved in options trading by being the buyer to every seller and the seller to every buyer.

Originally from Lubbock, she earned her degree in Graphic Design from the University of North Texas in Denton, not knowing that her professional career would pivot to finance shortly after graduation.

While her roots may lie in West Texas and her family is scattered across DFW, she cultivated a network that extends beyond geographical boundaries. She and her family moved to Coppell in 2020 to be closer to work, setting roots in a city with an excellent park system and a diverse culinary scene. On the weekends she enjoys exploring Coppell’s farmers’ market and visiting the Dallas Arboretum. The family has a tradition of taking bluebonnet photos with the kids every spring and pumpkin patch photos every fall.

Living in Coppell gives her the flexibility and balance of a perfect home base and easy commute to her job at OCC, located in Cypress Waters, just northwest of downtown Dallas. When it comes to its employees, OCC focuses on attracting and developing the right people with a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) aren’t just buzzwords—they are embedded in their core values, and Elizabeth is privileged to be part of a group that champions diversity, particularly for women, within the organization.

For those unfamiliar with the Dallas Region, Elizabeth often describes it as a city of boundless opportunities and growth. But despite its rapid development, DFW remains relatively affordable compared to other major metros. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking new ventures, this city welcomes diversity and innovation with open arms.

To fellow newcomers embarking on their careers in DFW, she offers this advice:

• Find your passion, but do not hesitate to explore new horizons;
• Embrace discomfort, for it is often the catalyst for personal and professional growth
• Keep exploring and always stay curious.