Women in Finance

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Commercial Bank Commercial Mortgage Lending Group Northeast Regional/Chicago Manager, New York City

Judy Guarino

Judy Guarino got her start in commercial real estate banking more than 15 years ago when she participated in the development of a small loan program for real estate investors at JPMorgan Chase. As the regional manager for JPMorgan’s Northeast Commercial Mortgage Lending Group, Guarino manages a team of brokers who are responsible for sourcing financial solutions for real estate investors. Client transactions can range anywhere from $1M to more than $25M and include retail, industrial, office and mixed-use assets.

Photo: Courtesy of Judy Guarino

How Did You Get Your Start In CRE Finance?

Early on in my banking career, I worked with small to midsize manufacturers and wholesalers in the retail industry. A new opportunity came up at JPMorgan Chase to work on a project within our commercial real estate group to develop a small loan program for real estate investors. It sounded like an exciting challenge, so I raised my hand to be a part of the project. Fifteen years later, I’m still in the industry learning every day with the same curiosity and excitement that originally drew me to commercial real estate.

Why Specialize In CRE Finance?

There’s something about working with individuals who develop the neighborhoods we live in, the place we call home, where we raise our children and grow as individuals. Working in commercial real estate, we’re able to help change the landscape of our communities to keep them thriving and safe. The industry impacts everyone and it’s exciting to be a part of that.

Are Women Represented Enough In CRE Finance?

The industry has historically been dominated by men, but there are many women like myself who play a huge part in the industry and strive to make a difference. I’ve seen many women raised in the industry, by their parents or grandparents, who want them to learn the family business or follow in their footsteps. I’m seeing more women enter the industry and this will only increase.

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

During meetings throughout my career in finance, not just CRE, I was typically the only woman in the room, but I never felt intimidated or different. We all worked together to achieve the same goals and leveraged our strengths to accomplish any task. Increasingly, I’m seeing more women being represented during those meetings and the entire industry should continue to bring in diverse talent and ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate and share their voice.

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

I’m a believer in leading by example and I'm fortunate to be working on a team that’s always looking to bring in new and diverse talent. We all have the opportunity and responsibility to take on a leadership role in advocating for diverse talent to help bring innovation and new thinking to the industry. It’s critical that we continue to share our own experiences and why we chose to work in commercial real estate. Take advantage of any chance you get to talk about the many incredible opportunities in the industry, whether through college or university recruitment, or other industry events across the country.

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

I was 33 when I entered the CRE industry. After spending 15 years prior in the retail and small business industry, CRE was very different and a little intimidating because I was outside my comfort zone. I would tell my 33-year-old self to get comfortable with the uncomfortable and push past that comfort zone. The more you push yourself, the more confident, knowledgeable and successful you will become.

How Did You Get Your Start In CRE Finance?

Why Specialize In CRE Finance?

Are Women Represented Enough In CRE Finance?

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

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

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

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Judy Guarino

How Did You Get Your Start In CRE Finance?

Why Specialize In CRE Finance?

Are Women Represented Enough In CRE Finance?

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

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

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

How Did You Get Your Start In CRE Finance?

Why Specialize In CRE Finance?

Are Women Represented Enough In CRE Finance?

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

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

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

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