What led you to a career in the deal-making industry?
My CEO at the time asked if I would be interested in “marketing role” at the firm. Though I wasn’t certain of the responsibilities of the position, I made clear that being involved in revenue generating activities such as structuring transactions and executing deals was important.
How does diversity add value in the deal-making process?
Credit decisions are better when more than one of point of view is incorporated. Diversity ensures that different experiences are brought to the table. Organizations need to create a culture that fosters and supports different ideas, opinions and perspectives.
The most memorable deal I worked on....
It was a transaction where all the deal professionals involved were women. It was the most straightforward, efficient and productive negotiation I’ve ever been a part of.
Advice for achieving success in the industry....
Work ethic and attitude is everything. Sharing ideas and asking questions demonstrates engagement and enthusiasm. These traits along with delivering great work product will set you apart.
Profile:
Cheryl is a results-driven professional with over 25 years of corporate finance experience. She is well versed in the debt capital markets and her expertise in structuring complex debt financings for middle marketing companies has provided her clients with solutions that generate immediate benefits in terms of providing incremental liquidity, growth capital, or reducing the cost of capital. At Crystal Financial a non-bank direct private credit provider, a she is responsible for business development and marketing strategy. Since joining in 2011, she has sourced, structured and underwritten over $550 million of debt financings. Cheryl began her career in the asset-based lending sector at Fleet Retail Finance.
Location: Crystal Financial, Boston, Massachusetts, United States.
Education: Master of Business Administration, F. W. Olin Graduate School of Business, Babson College; B.B.A, University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
