Emma Nealis, Vice President in Institutional Equity Sales for the Investment Bank at Deutsche Bank, won Rising Star at Markets Media Group’s 2025 U.S. Women in Finance Awards.

What was your reaction to winning the award?

I feel extremely honored to be recognized among such an inspiring group of women in the financial industry. I am profoundly grateful to Deutsche Bank and my amazing support system, both personally and professionally, for cultivating an environment that has fostered my growth and development. I view this award not as a personal achievement, but as a testament to the collective support system I am privileged enough to have, which enables me to thrive.

How do you approach challenges in a high-pressure or fast-paced environment, and what’s your strategy for overcoming them?

My Dad used to tell me to “see it big and keep it simple,” a philosophy I’ve frequently embraced throughout my career when navigating unique situations. Years of playing sports, including my time as a college athlete, have trained me to prioritize long-term outcomes over short-term gains. In my daily work within a high-pressure and fast-paced environment, I consistently strive to identify the ultimate goal and avoid discouragement from challenges encountered along the way. I’ve discovered that adaptability in these situations has allowed me to be most opportunistic and successfully achieve the objectives I initially set.

Do you mentor or coach other women, and what’s the most important lesson or guidance you try to share with emerging leaders?

Throughout my career, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had many impactful female mentors who have guided me, opened doors, and shared invaluable wisdom. Their generosity inspires me to pay it forward to the next generation of women entering the finance industry. The most important lesson I strive to impart to women early in their careers is the power of building a diverse and supportive network. It extends beyond simply having a mentor; it involves cultivating relationships with peers, sponsors, and allies who will champion you, offer different perspectives, and provide a vital support system as you navigate your career path.

What do you see as the biggest opportunities for women in finance today, and how can they be leveraged?

I truly believe that one of the biggest opportunities for women in finance today lies in driving creative and disruptive change within what has traditionally been a legacy industry. There is ample space across the financial sector for those who offer fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. Women, with their diverse experiences and problem-solving approaches, are uniquely positioned to challenge existing norms and introduce new methodologies, thereby driving efficiency and creating a positive impact across the industry.