Talos's Pamela Lee Named Startup Professional of the Year at WatersTechnology's Women in Technology & Data Awards 2026

Pamela provided her insights as part of a WatersTechnology interview. In honor of International Women's Day, some highlights are included below:

How long have you been in the financial services industry?
I have been in the financial services industry for over a decade, with experience spanning equities and FX at traditional financial institutions before transitioning into digital assets.

How did you get into the industry? Was it a conscious decision or did you ‘fall’ into it?
It was a conscious decision. My previous firm launched a new digital assets business, and through my day-to-day interactions with that initiative, I became increasingly interested in the space. I was ready for a new challenge, and I was excited by both the growth potential and the long-term impact digital assets could have on the financial industry.

What does your day-to-day role entail?
As Head of APAC Sales at Talos, I lead institutional growth across the region, building strategic relationships with clients and partners. My role spans market expansion, understanding evolving market trends, and translating client feedback into product development while navigating diverse regulatory and cultural landscapes. I work closely with global teams to deliver institutional-grade digital asset trading infrastructure while positioning Talos as a trusted partner in the evolving financial ecosystem.

What single project or piece of work are you most proud of during your career in the industry to date?
One of the achievements I’m most proud of is helping scale our APAC presence from being the second employee in the region to an almost 20-person office today. We built institutional momentum that supported broader regional expansion across functions from an early-stage sales foothold. Establishing a strong revenue pipeline while contributing to our position as a market leader in the digital asset space across APAC has been a true team effort.

What are you currently working on and what makes it significant in the context of your position?
My current focus is building scalable institutional relationships that will define our next phase of growth in APAC. As more traditional players enter digital assets, we’re aligning product development, partnerships, and regional strategy to support long-term adoption. This is significant because it moves us from early adoption to institutional integration.

To what extent were you helped during your career by a mentor within the business?
Mentorship has played a significant role throughout my career. From right after graduation to navigating leadership responsibilities, and later balancing my career after becoming a mother, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors at work and outside of work who have guided me through different stages of life. They helped me prioritize, build confidence, and make thoughtful decisions. Their support has been instrumental in shaping both my professional and personal growth.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far during your career?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that confidence compounds. Early in my career, I focused on proving myself. Over time, I realized that trusting my judgment and owning my voice make the greatest difference. Preparation matters, but conviction is what builds credibility. Once you believe in the value you bring, others will too, and that shift changes how you lead, negotiate, and grow.

What would you advise women just entering the industry?
Be curious and stay adaptable. The digital asset industry evolves quickly, so a willingness to learn continuously is a real advantage. Don’t be intimidated by how technical or fast-moving it can seem; fundamentals in finance, strategy, and relationship-building still matter deeply. Seek mentorship, build a strong network, and trust your judgment. This industry rewards those who are resilient, open-minded, and confident in their abilities and perspectives.

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Find the full list of winners of WatersTechnology's Women in Technology & Data Awards 2026 here.