Jillian Mariutti

How Did You Get Your Start In CRE Finance?

I actually came to CRE via the world of finance, but I’ve been working at the nexus of finance and real estate for about a decade.

I started my career at Wachovia’s interest-rate derivatives desk, and I happened to be put on commercial real estate clients — it wasn’t something I did intentionally. That exposure to the industry really left me intrigued, and I quickly grew passionate about real estate. After helping real estate owners with their interest-rate risk management for a number of years, I decided to embed myself more firmly into CRE, and I pivoted into my current debt and equity finance role at Mission Capital.

Why Specialize In CRE Finance?

One of the things I love about my job as a debt and equity adviser is that I’m able to utilize my math background and quantitative skills, but my job also has a significant interpersonal element. There’s a lot of creativity that’s needed to be a successful finance broker, and my skill set and interests align just right for me to do this job.

Are Women Represented Enough In CRE Finance?

On the advisory side of real estate, there are numerous strong female role models, including Mary Ann Tighe, Darcy Stacom and Adelaide Polsinelli. The team at Mission really values diversity, and we’re fortunate to have several talented female professionals in senior positions who mentor young women looking to make their mark on real estate finance.

Can You Speak To Your  Experience/Treatment As A Woman In CRE Finance?

I know that some people have horror stories, but in a full decade at the intersection of CRE and finance, I have never felt threatened. If anything, it seems like there are often advocates to help women in CRE, for example, news publications that put a focus on writing about strong, successful women.

That said, over the years, I know there have been a few instances in which clients and potential clients thought I was only in a meeting as a token female. But, even in these cases, people learn fast. I’ve never been very shy in meetings, and I’ve found that once you demonstrate your knowledge, gender goes out the window.

What Can The Industry Do To Encourage Bringing More Women Into The Finance Space?

There is significant opportunity to increase the number of women in the finance industry by making young (high school and college-aged) women aware of jobs in the field, showing them that these positions are available, and instilling a belief that this is a field that they can enjoy and be successful in. Increasing outreach at a young age will result in more women pursuing math/finance majors, thus more women entering the finance field. This could entail senior women in the industry attending career fairs, speaking events at all-girl high schools and colleges, etc.  

Now how do we keep women in finance? By creating initiatives and networking groups for women where young ladies can meet female peers and senior women mentors within the industry. I speak from personal experience that it has helped me in my career tremendously.

What Advice Would You Offer Your Former Self About Navigating The World Of CRE Finance?

Always believe in yourself, because if you don’t believe in yourself no one else will. Knowing your abilities is key, and it will give you the motivation to succeed and the fortitude to keep going even when times are tough.