Kate Santacruz
Kate Santacruz is an Investment Banking Associate at DBD Investment Bank, where she has spent the past three years advising lower middle-market, founder-led, and family-owned businesses across diverse industries, including Healthcare, Education, TMT, Manufacturing, and Consumer Services. In her role, she leads a team of analysts to manage 20–25 live transactions simultaneously, overseeing all aspects of deal execution from client onboarding, investor outreach, and financial modeling to due diligence and final transaction structuring. Her expertise lies in building strong relationships with business owners and helping them navigate strategic decisions about the growth and future of their companies.
Before joining DBD, Kate gained foundational experience through internships at Nomura and Wells Fargo, where she contributed to investment research, financial analysis, and credit card and merchant services projects. She earned her degree in Applied Economics and Management with a minor in Leadership from Cornell University, where she actively participated in the Dyson Leadership Fellows Program, Professional Development of Women, and multiple student government initiatives. Kate also began her academic journey at community college, demonstrating her dedication to growth and excellence at every stage of her education.
Beyond her professional life, Kate is passionate about mentoring and social impact. She currently serves on the Junior Board of the Coalition for the Homeless, Inc., and leads social impact initiatives at DBD. Outside of work, she channels her discipline and focus into boxing, training for an amateur fight, and enjoys reading, particularly books on resilience and leadership. Kate’s combination of analytical rigor, strategic insight, and commitment to relationships has positioned her as a rising leader in investment banking.
• Santa Fe College - AA
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund
• All-State Academic Team
• FCSAA All-Academic Team
• Leadership Scholar
• All-Florida Academic Team
• SG Outstanding Service
• Dean's List
• Association of Latino Professionals For America (ALPFA)
• Dyson Leadership Fellows Program
• Forté
• SEO
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) Scholar
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to recognize the power of your network. Actively build and leverage relationships—seek them out, nurture them, and use them strategically. Networking opens doors to knowledge, opportunities, and perspectives that can be invaluable throughout your career.
Equally important is the idea of giving back. Once you’ve established yourself, take the time to mentor and support the next generation. Sharing your experience and guidance not only strengthens others but also helps shape a more connected and empowered professional community.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me, both in my work and personal life, are being personable and intentional. I believe in fostering open communication and sharing knowledge, because building genuine connections and intentionally supporting others creates stronger relationships, better collaboration, and meaningful impact.
Locations
DBD Investment Bank
333 Hudson Street 902, New York, New York, New York, NY 10013