In this episode of The Investment Banking Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Larry Grafstein, Deputy Chairman, Global Investment Banking at RBC Capital Markets.

Larry shares his unconventional journey from law and politics to investment banking, offering valuable insights on building relationships, winning major deals, and achieving a work-life balance.

With over $1 trillion in transactions under his belt, Larry’s wisdom on navigating high-stakes finance and fostering professional connections is a must-hear for aspiring finance professionals! ____________________________________________

The Investment Banking Leaders Podcast

Hosted by Peter Nieberg

Produced by Peter Nieberg and Brett Dayman

Edited by Natalia Revere

In this episode of the Investment Banking Leaders podcast, host Pete Nieberg interviews Neno Raic, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at NLC.

Founded in 2021, NLC has become the first independent alternative fund finance lender dedicated to providing financing solutions to general partners and the funds they manage.

Raic shares insights from his journey in the fund financing space, the impact of recent banking crises on the industry, and the importance of building a solid team culture in the ever-growing NLC.

He also discusses the transition from corporate banking to entrepreneurship, the value of networking, mentorship, and the significance of persistence and excitement in fundraising. Additionally, Raic emphasizes the importance of celebrating successes and encourages interested individuals to consider the growing field of fund financing.

00:00 Meet Neno Raic: A Trailblazer in Fund Financing

02:09 The Evolution of Fund Financing with Neno Raic

03:40 Neno's Journey: From Croatia to Fund Finance Innovator

07:50 The Importance of Fund Finance in Investment Banking

11:47 Mindset and Skillset: Keys to Success in Fund Finance

16:05 Mastering the Art of Fundraising and Adding Value

22:06 Navigating Career Transitions in Finance

23:42 The Essence of Problem Solving in Business

24:12 Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities

24:53 Leadership Insights: Building a Culture and Team Dynamics

26:44 The Power of Core Values in Shaping a Company

28:59 Transitioning from Investment Banking to Entrepreneurship

30:58 The Role of Mentorship in Career Development

33:44 Networking: A Necessary Skill for Founders

35:37 Fund Finance: Opportunities and Growth

37:23 Looking Ahead: Plans and Predictions for NLC

39:33 Reflecting on Career Advice and Continuous Learning

43:44 Closing Thoughts and Open Invitation

This episode features Justine Mannering, an accomplished Managing Director on the Consumer Retail Team at Stifel in New York, sharing her extensive investment banking experience and insights on career growth, diversity and inclusion, networking, and work-life balance.

Starting her career at DC Advisory and rapidly advancing, Mannering has executed over a hundred transactions across various consumer segments. She emphasizes the importance of building robust expertise, leveraging networking for career advancement, the role of mentorship and sponsorship, and actively participating in diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Mannering also discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by technology in the banking sector, the significance of building meaningful relationships within the industry, and offers practical advice for professionals at different stages of their banking careers. Her unique perspective as a founding member of Exponent Women highlights the need for platforms that support women in finance!

00:00 Welcome to the Investment Banking Leaders Podcast Series 2

00:41 Meet Justine Mannering: A Trailblazer in Investment Banking

03:05 Justine's Unexpected Journey into Investment Banking

06:12 The Evolution of Investment Banking: Challenges and Technology

09:48 Building a Successful Career in Investment Banking

12:45 The Power of Sponsorship and Building Meaningful Connections

19:28 Embracing New Opportunities: Justine's Experience with Team Building

23:51 Championing Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

27:19 Empowering Women in Banking: Strategies and Insights

28:14 The Importance of Networking and Building Supportive Communities

29:31 Balancing Family and Career in Investment Banking

32:38 Creating a Supportive Work Environment and Recognizing Achievements

37:11 Navigating the Post-COVID Work Environment: Challenges and Adaptations

40:23 Effective Networking Strategies for Investment Bankers

43:19 Reflecting on a Career in Investment Banking: Advice and Insights

47:05 Final Thoughts and Resources for Professional Growth