As part of the Women in Investing Network (WIN) of Philadelphia’s Member Spotlight series, we’re highlighting two inspiring members whose professional journeys embody collaboration and leadership. When Stacey Crognale and Tara Lavin first met at Susquehanna International Group (SIG), neither imagined they would one day co-found their own firm. Today, nearly two decades later, they serve as Managing Partners of Greythorne Associates, a boutique executive search firm specializing in financial services recruitment and long-term partnerships with clients and candidates.
Finding Their Paths
Stacey began her career studying Accounting and International Business (Japanese) at Drexel University, completed a co-op at SIG, and then joined full-time. She became a key figure in building the firm’s global Human Resources department and people strategy. Tara, who studied Political Science, entered financial services somewhat unexpectedly. Her early roles and time at Seraph Partners, a hedge fund, gave her a deep understanding of the industry and its talent landscape.
After both women took time away from work to focus on their families, they stayed in close contact. Their shared values, friendship, and professional respect kept the connection strong. “People remembered us, and we remembered them,” Stacey shared. “We both missed the energy of the industry and knew we had more to give.”
That network and reputation soon sparked something new. A former colleague reached out to ask if they were thinking about staffing. That simple question became the catalyst for Greythorne Associates. “There was no big business plan or launch announcement,” Stacey recalled. “We just started taking calls, and before we knew it, we were a business.”
Building Greythorne
Founded in 2007, just before the financial crisis, Greythorne’s foundation was built on trust, adaptability, and integrity. Launching during a volatile period was risky, but both Stacey and Tara credit their resilience, curiosity, and commitment to kindness as the driving forces behind their success.
“You can’t depend on anyone but yourself,” Tara reflected. Stacey added that emotional intelligence, thoughtfulness, and taking chances have been essential to both their partnership and Greythorne’s growth.
Things I Would Tell My Younger Self
Looking back, both Stacey and Tara agree that experience has been their greatest teacher. Stacey would tell her younger self to speak up more, take chances, and not be afraid to say, “I don’t know.” She believes confidence often comes from being honest about what you are still learning.
Tara echoes that advice. She would remind her younger self to raise her hand, take more risks, and not fear rejection. “You can’t depend on anyone but yourself,” she shared, “but you can always depend on your own curiosity and resilience.”
Both women agree that success is built on more than expertise; it is rooted in thoughtfulness and emotional intelligence. Those values continue to guide how they lead, build relationships, and show up for others in their industry today.
Staying Connected with WIN
Stacey joined WIN Philadelphia in 2008, shortly after founding Greythorne. “The women are what keep us engaged,” she said. Both co-founders see WIN as a space to learn, give back, and celebrate the shared experiences of women navigating ambitious careers. They love the variety of programming, from educational events that spark meaningful conversation to socials that create genuine connections. “It has been amazing seeing WIN grow,” they shared, “and we especially enjoy the events where you can bring a friend and share the experience with someone new.”
As they reflect on their journey, Stacey and Tara hope their legacy will be one of empowerment and authenticity, both within WIN and through their work at Greythorne.