Her Story
About Ann
Ann Elizabeth Cruz serves as Vice President of Technology Business Management at PJT Partners, where she leads technology finance and business management initiatives. With approximately a decade of experience in technology business management within the investment banking industry, she specializes in technology cost of ownership, financial forecasting, strategic program planning, cost monitoring, and operational efficiency. Ann transitioned into this specialized field after being recruited from an accounting and finance team at a major investment bank, leveraging her financial expertise to help organizations better understand and strategically manage technology investments.
In her current role, Ann emphasizes collaboration, partnership, and solutions-oriented leadership. She works closely with her team and senior management to align technology investments with broader business priorities while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and control costs. A committed advocate for talent development and inclusion, she has supported efforts to increase female representation in technology, contributing to significant growth in the number of women within her department during her tenure. Her leadership approach centers on recognizing potential, developing talent, and creating an environment where individuals can grow and contribute meaningfully.
Ann holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from Saint Peter’s University and has built a career defined by strategic thinking, adaptability, and continuous learning. She values the balance between professional achievement and family, maintaining a hybrid work schedule that allows her to fulfill both her leadership responsibilities and her role as a parent. Outside of work, she volunteers at her children’s schools, including through interim service on an education board, and supports sports organizations, where she enjoys helping foster teamwork, confidence, and leadership skills in young people.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ann
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of curiosity, resilience, integrity, and a genuine commitment to understanding how technology influences people, organizations, and the future of business. Throughout my career, I have continuously expanded my expertise across technology business management, expense management, cost optimization, governance, stakeholder engagement, resource prioritization, risk management, and digital transformation, while remaining focused on aligning technology investments with broader business objectives. My grit, tenacity, and determination to overcome challenges have helped me grow, but I also believe that true success is measured by the impact we make on others. I strive to lift while I lead by collaborating, empowering those around me, and creating opportunities for others to grow. Above all, I remain committed to leading with authenticity, integrity, and a sense of purpose.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to remain curious, embrace continuous improvement, and never allow challenges to diminish my determination. I have learned that meaningful growth comes from asking questions, listening to different perspectives, and continuously expanding my knowledge. I also believe that success is rarely achieved alone; collaboration, trust, and a willingness to learn from the people around me are essential to both personal and professional growth. Every experience, whether a success or a challenge, presents an opportunity to learn, evolve, and become a stronger and more effective leader.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the technology, finance, or business leadership industries is to stay curious, build your expertise, and never underestimate the power of perseverance. Take the time to understand how different parts of an organization connect, look beyond your immediate responsibilities to understand the broader business, and have the confidence to contribute your perspective. I also believe leadership is about more than advancing your own career; it is about creating opportunities for others to succeed alongside you. Share your knowledge, build meaningful relationships, collaborate generously, and lift others as you rise. Above all, remain authentic and tenacious. Challenges are inevitable, but a persistent, never-give-up mindset can transform obstacles into opportunities and open doors to extraordinary possibilities.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field lie at the intersection of technology and finance, particularly as organizations increasingly rely on technology to drive business strategy, operational performance, and long-term growth. Professionals who can understand both the technological and financial sides of an organization are uniquely positioned to create meaningful impact. For women, this is an especially important time to step confidently into leadership and help shape the future of the industry by championing collaboration, mentoring emerging talent, advocating for diverse perspectives, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. I believe the strongest leadership is built on a combination of knowledge and character: curiosity drives growth, integrity builds trust, collaboration strengthens teams, and tenacity creates resilience. Together, these qualities create opportunities to lead with purpose and leave a lasting impact.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, integrity, honesty, trust, grace, tenacity, and collaboration. These principles guide how I lead, build relationships, and approach challenges, reminding me that true success is measured not only by professional achievements or titles, but also by the character we demonstrate and the positive impact we have on others. Family is one of my greatest priorities, and spending quality time with the people I love provides balance and perspective. I also believe in giving back through service and community involvement, whether by supporting colleagues, volunteering, or contributing to the communities that matter to me. Above all, I strive to show up with authenticity, compassion, and purpose, because success is most meaningful when it is shared with and used to uplift others.
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