What led you to a career in the deal making industry?
I have always loved finance. What drew me to the deal industry specifically was the chance to be involved in forward looking strategy and decision making, a core factor in the deals we work on. I am granted the opportunity every day to collaborate with a variety of companies, investors, inspirational founders and talented management teams to undertake such transactions, which are transformative not only for the companies but all their stakeholders as well.
Best practices for fostering an inclusive workplace...
It has to start at the top but cannot just be words – there needs to be real buy-in across all levels of the organization. Commitment from management with a clear expectation regarding an inclusive culture, supported by organizational policies, initiatives and, most importantly, an open dialogue are all core building blocks. As diversity increases, it is essential that all parties feel seen, supported and have the opportunities to succeed.
Advancing woman to leadership positions...
Recognizing the path to leadership for women may be different. It is important to provide opportunities and flexibility for women at each stage in their career, which in turn ables them to step into leadership roles. I personally have been very fortunate in my career to benefit from strong mentors, personalized training programs, and internal support networks. I have also been privileged to work at banks with supportive policies and cultures which have allowed me to advance my career.
Advice for achieving success...
.....not be afraid to be yourself. This is a tough career where working hard and being “technically good” are base expectations. To not only succeed but to really thrive you need to find your own way to authentically connect with your colleagues, teams, and clients. These connections will allow you to build the relationships, respect and confidence needed to build a career in this industry.
Profile:
Justine is responsible for coverage of the apparel, accessories & luxury sector. She has transaction experience across numerous consumer industry segments including juvenile products, beauty & personal care products, leisure, food, agriculture, and home products. Justine joined Stifel from Alantra where she was a Managing Director covering apparel, luxury, and personal care. Prior to Alantra, she was Global Head of Consumer & Luxury at BDA Partners, and a Director at DC Advisory Group (previously Close Brothers Corporate Finance) in London.
Justine is a committee member of WIN, Stifel’s internal women’s organization, and the Diversity Ambassador for the Investment Bank on the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. She is a co-founder and board member of Exponent Women, a women’s networking organization in New York. She is also a board member of Starfish Greathearts Foundation in the United States, which supports vulnerable children in South Africa.
Education: Post graduate diploma in Accounting and a BC from Rhodes University, South Africa.
Location: Stifel, New York, New York.
