Nancy Straub, Vice President, Chief of Staff, Corporate Bank Americas, Deutsche Bank, won Rising Star at Markets Media Group’s 2025 U.S. Women in Finance Awards.

How did it feel to receive Rising Star recognition, and what does it mean to you personally?

Receiving the Rising Star recognition was both humbling and energizing. It is a reminder that the work we do behind the scenes truly matters. Personally, it reinforces my belief that progress in finance, building inclusive teams, and creating opportunities for women to thrive, is still very important to DB. The award motivates me to keep up the work that I do in this space.

What accomplishments are you most proud of in your career so far?

One of my proudest accomplishments has been leading initiatives that support the advancing of gender equity. I have become aware of issues like underrepresentation in certain leadership positions. Recognizing the privilege, I may have and the impact of my actions on others has instilled a sense of responsibility to actively work on creating embracive environments.

How do you define success for yourself and how has that definition evolved over time?

Early in my career, success meant delivering flawless execution. Over time, I have realized true success is about impact on people and the organization. Today, I measure success by the strength of the teams I help build, the trust I earn, and the opportunities I create for others. It is about leaving things better than I found them.

In your role, what skills or qualities do you rely on most to succeed?

Adaptability and communication are critical. Being able to pivot while keeping stakeholders aligned is essential. Empathy matters – understanding team dynamics ensures solutions are sustainable. I also lean heavily on curiosity; asking “why” often leads to the best outcomes.

What advice would you give to a young woman starting out in finance today?

First, own your voice, your perspective is valuable. Second, seek out mentors and sponsors; they can open doors and provide guidance you did not know you needed. Finally, embrace continuous learning. And remember; success is not a straight line; every challenge is an opportunity to grow.