Jenny Just: A Trailblazer in Finance and Empowerment
Jenny Just is a name that resonates with ambition and innovation. As a self-made billionaire, mother of four, entrepreneur, and investor, she has carved out a remarkable career in the financial services and technology sectors. A Brookfield native and graduate of Brookfield Central High School, Just co-founded PEAK6 in 1997 at the age of 29 with her then-business partner and now-husband, Matt Hulsizer. What began as a proprietary options trading company has evolved into a multibillion-dollar fintech empire, employing over 2,000 people and encompassing eight subsidiary companies. Among these, Apex Fintech Solutions stands out as a key player, providing back-end trading and technology services for more than half of the online trading platforms in the market, including notable names like SoFi, Ally, and Public.
The Genesis of Poker Power
In 2020, Just embarked on a new venture that combined her passion for empowerment with a personal touch. Teaming up with her teenage daughter, Juliette Hulsizer, she launched Poker Power. The idea originated from Juliette’s desire to enhance her competitive edge in tennis through the strategic thinking skills learned in poker. The duo set an ambitious goal: to teach one million women how to play poker, thereby equipping them with essential skills in strategic thinking, capital allocation, and decision-making.
A Midwestern Upbringing
Reflecting on her upbringing in Brookfield, Just describes it as a quintessential Midwest childhood, shaped by the values instilled by her hardworking parents and her four brothers. This environment fostered a strong work ethic and a competitive spirit. Just fondly recalls her close-knit group of friends, the “Gidgets,” who have remained a significant part of her life. Their shared experiences and loyalty to their Wisconsin roots, particularly as devoted Packers fans, continue to bind them together.
Early Career Decisions
Just’s career trajectory was influenced by her determination to work in Chicago, which she viewed as the “big city” compared to her Wisconsin upbringing. Her journey began at O’Connor & Associates, where she was drawn to the company by the enticing perks of beer and Haagen-Dazs ice cream. Starting as an options trader on the Chicago Board Options Exchange, Just found herself in a male-dominated environment, a challenge she met with confidence, thanks to her upbringing with brothers. The trading floor, likened to a sporting event, became a transformative experience that shaped her career.
The Leap into Entrepreneurship
The decision to launch PEAK6 was born out of necessity. After achieving success in the over-the-counter equity derivatives desk at O’Connor, Just and Hulsizer faced a merger that would require them to relocate to Connecticut. Unwilling to leave Chicago, they decided to take the plunge into entrepreneurship. With $1.6 million in startup capital, they founded PEAK6 with the vision of leveraging technology to replicate the trading success they had experienced on the exchange floor. Their innovative approach quickly garnered attention, leading to significant growth.
Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool
Throughout her career, Just has learned to embrace failure as an integral part of growth. At PEAK6, she and her team have initiated or acquired over 15 companies, with more than half experiencing setbacks. Acknowledging that losing money on nearly half of their trades is part of the game, Just emphasizes the importance of resilience and innovation. This mindset has been crucial in navigating the challenges of a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Paving the Way for Women in Finance
Just is passionate about fostering opportunities for women in finance and technology. At PEAK6, she has implemented programs designed to support women’s advancement in trading and fintech. Initiatives like the Women’s Trading Experience and Women’s Technology Experience aim to create pathways for women in an industry where only 14% of money managers are female. Notably, PEAK6 boasts a higher percentage of women capital allocators than any other company in the sector, with 36% of decision-makers being women.
The Impact of Poker Power
Poker Power has made significant strides since its inception, reaching over 290 organizations across 40 countries. One of its most impactful collaborations is with the Global Give Back Circle, a nonprofit focused on mentorship and education for at-risk girls in Kenya and beyond. Through this partnership, Poker Power has integrated poker lessons into leadership development programs, empowering young women with confidence and strategic decision-making skills.
A Vision for the Future
Jenny Just’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and the importance of empowering others. Through her various ventures, she continues to inspire women to take risks, embrace challenges, and develop the skills necessary to thrive in both their personal and professional lives. As she prepares to share her insights at the BizTimes Media’s Women in Business Symposium, Just remains committed to paving the way for future generations of women in finance and beyond.