Krisztina Bende
Warsaw
Summary
Seasoned professional with 25 years of experience in capital markets, encompassing every facet—from investment banking to regulatory roles (Securities and Exchange Commission) and investor relations. In recent years, expanded expertise to private markets transactions, leading the M&A and corporate finance divisions at PKO Securities. Built a vast network through collaboration with private equity firms, leveraging corporate banking relationships, and advising an extensive client base. Recognized for exceptional team-building and retention capabilities, paired with a unique ability to balance professional success with raising a family of three.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Managing Director, Head of ECM and M&A
PKO BP Securities
Warsaw
05.2022 - 01.2025
- Drive deal origination leveraging extensive personal network and PKO Bank’s corporate banking relationships
- Spearhead negotiations of company’s involvement in transactions
- Key achievement: Successfully transitioned PKO Securities to global coordinator role in international transactions alongside tier-one investment banks (such as GS, JP Morgan or MS)
- Provide high-level oversight of transaction execution, stepping in to lead during critical, decisive moments of deals
- Key achievement: Built strong client trust, resulting in repeat transactions and long-term collaborations with PKO Securities
- Contribute to strategic planning of PKO Securities, including negotiations with PKO Bank's Board
- Key achievement: Incorporated PKO Securities into newly formed Investment Banking Division, as formalized in Bank's strategy for 2025-27
- Manage and grow the largest team of ECM & Corporate Finance professionals in the market, recognized for its high performance and expertise
- Key achievement: Maintained team cohesion and focus on delivering exceptional results, even amid significant changes in PKO Bank’s top management
- Mentor young professionals through workshops and student organization mentoring programs, fostering next generation of industry talent
Director / Executive Director, Head of Equity Capital Markets
PKO BP Securities
Warsaw
01.2012 - 04.2022
- Developed and maintained strong client relationships, driving business growth through origination and evaluation of new opportunities
- Negotiated terms of cooperation to ensure best outcomes for both clients and the firm
- Led execution of equity capital markets (ECM) transactions, including IPOs, secondary fundraisings, placements, and tender offers, consistently delivering high-quality results
- Provided oversight and strategic direction for multiple projects, ensuring successful completion within established timelines and budgets
- Built and managed team of ECM and corporate finance professionals, fostering culture of excellence and collaboration
Analyst/Associate/VP
UniCredit CA IB Polska S.A.
03.2002 - 12.2011
- Conducted market research and analysis, contributing to transaction strategy and execution
- Prepared documentation such as prospectuses, valuation reports, and due diligence materials
- As progressed within the organization shifted role to managing key aspects of capital market transaction, transaction teams, coordinating cross-functional stakeholders and ensuring project success
- Specialized in cross-border transactions and dual listings, contributing to the transformation of the Polish capital market into a unified EU framework
Junior Specialist, Corporate Finance Department
Polish Securities and Exchange Commission
07.2000 - 02.2002
- Processed applications for securities admittance to public trading, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards
- Assisted in the implementation of EU securities laws into Polish regulatory frameworks
Investor Relations
PZU S.A.
01.2000 - 03.2000
- Supported financial reporting and consolidation processes for strategic stakeholders
Education
Venture Capital and Private Equity - Investment Strategies
Imperial College Business School
01.2024 - 01.2025
Master’s Degree - Finance and Banking
Warsaw School of Economics
01.1996 - 01.2000
Skills
- Strategic Leadership & Team Management
- Equity Capital Markets (IPOs, Fundraising, Placements)
- Mergers & Acquisitions Advisory
- Venture Capital & Private Equity Investment Strategies
- Client Relationship Management
- Financial Analysis & Market Research
- Regulatory Compliance
Languages
Polish (Native)
Hungarian (Native)
English (Fluent)
German (Working Knowledge)
Timeline
Venture Capital and Private Equity - Investment Strategies
Imperial College Business School
01.2024 - 01.2025
Managing Director, Head of ECM and M&A
PKO BP Securities
05.2022 - 01.2025
Director / Executive Director, Head of Equity Capital Markets
PKO BP Securities
01.2012 - 04.2022
Analyst/Associate/VP
UniCredit CA IB Polska S.A.
03.2002 - 12.2011
Junior Specialist, Corporate Finance Department
Polish Securities and Exchange Commission
07.2000 - 02.2002
Investor Relations
PZU S.A.
01.2000 - 03.2000
Master’s Degree - Finance and Banking
Warsaw School of Economics
01.1996 - 01.2000
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