Jennifer Pyrka, Managing Director and Head of Sales, Americas for Instinet, won Crystal Ladder at Markets Media Group’s 2024 Women in Finance Awards. 

What does winning the Crystal Ladder Award mean to you personally and professionally?

Winning the Crystal Ladder Award is a significant milestone both personally and professionally. Professionally, it signifies recognition for excellence, leadership, and impact within the organization. It validates the dedication to my work, the ability to navigate challenges, and the influence I’ve had in contributing to team and organizational success. It’s also a motivator to continue pushing boundaries, mentoring others, and striving for even greater accomplishments.

This award is not just a reflection of my work, it speaks to the power of teamwork, trust and shared goals. Success is rarely achieved alone, its built on the shoulders of a team that challenges you, inspires you, and supports you through every obstacle. It reminds me that success isn’t just about climbing the ladder, it’s about reaching back to help others climb with you. I hope to continue to create opportunities for others, foster a culture of collaboration and help everyone around me shine.

Personally, it’s a reminder that hard work, resilience, and a commitment to excellence does not go unnoticed. I am especially grateful to the managers  and leaders who saw potential in me, even when I doubted myself. Their guidance has been invaluable and has shaped my career in ways I could never have imagined. It serves as inspiration to continue growing and setting higher goals for myself. Above all, the highlight was when my 14 year old daughter told me how proud she was. Nothing tops recognition like that from a teenage daughter to her mom.

What’s your advice to the next generation of women in finance? 

My advice is to focus on building a strong foundation of knowledge, seek out mentors and sponsors and don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself, whether asking for opportunities or sharing your ideas. Surround yourself with a strong network of allies who uplift and inspire you.

 What’s one piece of advice you wish you could go back and give to yourself at the start of your career?

Advice I would give my younger self is that progress isn’t always linear and that consistency, curiosity and willingness to learn will lead to greater opportunities and fulfillment in the long run. Challenges, setbacks, and even mistakes are not failures, they are lessons that shape resilience, character and expertise. Also I would emphasize building strong relationships early, seeking mentors, collaborating with peers, and fostering genuine connections. Relationships are just as crucial as the skills you develop.