In this special episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, recorded live at Money 20/20 in Amsterdam, Nadia is joined by Mary Agbesanwa (Lloyds Bank), Lynda Clarke (Tribe Payments), and Anil Hansjee (Fabric Ventures) to explore the question: "Is DEI Dying?" 

The discussion delves into the relevance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in today’s corporate world, addressing the potential 2024 anti-diversity trend. 

Mary emphasises the lived experiences of women and minorities, stressing DEI's critical role. Lynda highlights the dangers of sidelining inclusion and the importance of personalised support. Anil provides a historical perspective, advocating for pragmatic, low-cost DEI initiatives that foster genuine inclusion. 

The guests offer actionable advice, such as mentoring, sponsorship and integrating DEI into broader corporate strategies. 

Let's listen, let's learn, let's walk the talk.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In this episode of Fintech's DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Alexander Mark Deakin-Mckay, Commercial Marketing Director at Xeinadin, about fostering inclusivity in the financial technology sector. 

Alexander shares his journey emphasising the importance of creating safe work environments to unlock employees' potential. 

He highlights the role of middle management in promoting inclusivity and suggests leaders engage in sincere conversations with employees about their experiences. 

Alexander underscores the need for businesses to celebrate diversity year-round authentically and advises redefining what pride means to each individual. He concludes by encouraging listeners to educate themselves about diversity and approach conversations with genuine interest and respect, emphasising the value of understanding each person's unique lived experience.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Welcome to another  episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions! Today, host Nadia sits down with Betsy Samuel, the dynamic CMO at Thredd.

Betsy brings her wealth of experience and passion for inclusion to our conversation, sharing how she champions diversity, equity, and inclusion in the financial technology sector.

We delve into her unique journey to becoming CMO, the pivotal role of marketing in business, and the importance of moving beyond box-ticking exercises in DEI initiatives.

Betsy discusses how authentic leadership and diverse perspectives are key to sustainable success, drawing from her personal experiences and professional insights.

Join us as we explore actionable steps for creating truly inclusive workplaces.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

"Artificial intelligence is not coming, it's already here."

The DEI Discussions is delighted to bring the Artificial Discrimination series: Can AI be trusted with Inclusion?

In the latest episode of this exclusive series, Nadia is joined by Krishna Nadella, VP, Business Development, Head of Americas at SigTech

In this episode, the discussion revolves around AI's role in financial technology, emphasizing the crucial need for precise definition in its application. Krishna highlights the significance of trust when sharing data with AI-powered institutions, emphasizing that AI is already an integral part of our daily lives.

Additionally, Krishna provides nine guidelines for staying informed about AI, fostering innovation, and embracing continuous learning, emphasizing responsible AI adoption through ethics and collaboration.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

"Innovation thrives on different perspectives. People who seem 'different' are often the ones who ask the most interesting questions and drive real innovation."

Welcome to another episode of The DEI Discussions, where we explore The Artificial Discrimination Series: Can AI be Trusted with Inclusion? And in this episode, host Nadia is joined by A.M. Bhatt, Founder & CEO of dae. 

The pair explore the fascinating connections between AI and diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as unpacking the ethical considerations, the evolving job landscape and the potential for societal change powered by AI. 

Discover how AI will reshape work, emphasizing the importance of creative thinking. This is an enlightening conversation that challenges norms and envisions the future of AI and inclusion.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

"To operate in the grey, you must look critically at your data, analyze it, and apply judgment in making decisions. All of this is even more true with the complexities of a topic like inclusion."

The DEI Discussions is delighted to bring the Artificial Discrimination series: Can AI be trusted with Inclusion?

In the first of this exclusive series, Nadia is joined by Yael Malek, Chief People Officer at Bluevine.

In this episode, Yael discusses the trustworthiness of AI in promoting inclusion. 

She highlights the potential benefits and challenges of AI, emphasising the importance of diversity, empathy, and human judgment in addressing biases. 

She believes that while AI can enhance inclusivity, it cannot replace the fundamental human need for connection and belonging in the evolving workplace.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

"If we can, we want to prevent any conflict because most of the time conflicts are already a sign that things have gone far too long and in a direction that they shouldn't go.” 

On this EWPN special episode, Nadia is joined by Dina-Perla Portnaar, Integrity and Prevention Consultant/ Global PR and Marcon Specialist.

In this special episode, Dina-Perla shares her background, experiences, and the inspiration behind her startup focused on prevention, integrity management, and diversity. 

She emphasises the importance of focusing on morals, ethics, and daily choices in the business world and highlights the need for inclusivity and diversity. 

The pair discuss the challenges of creating sustainable diversity and inclusivity programs and advocate for a more human-centred approach within organisations. 

Secure your Early Bird tickets now for the EWPN Annual Conference on October 2nd-3rd in Vienna. Register here 👇

https://lnkd.in/dD5U5VEr

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

We’re back at FinTech Connect, North America for this special #OnTour episode of The DEI Discussions! And this time Nadia is joined by Ami Iceman Haueter, Chief Research and Digital Experience Officer at MSU Federal Credit Union.

In this episode, we gain insight into Ami’s role, highlighting the importance of inclusive digital experiences, including accessibility and representation in imagery, products, and languages. 

The pair stress the continuous nature of the inclusion journey, emphasising that it resembles a marathon, not a sprint. Ami encourages the idea of championing membership rather than viewing inclusion as a checkbox task. She places great importance on listening to hear and understand different perspectives to make impactful changes.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In this episode of The DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Flavilla Fongang, a CEO, brand expert, and diversity champion in the world of FinTech.

Flavilla discusses the journey from marketer to entrepreneur, emphasising the significance of authentic branding for inclusivity. She also highlights the importance of diverse partnerships and hiring practices.

The conversation revolves around ongoing inclusion efforts and the necessity of diverse leadership. Flavilla's initiatives, such as impactful books and virtual platforms, showcase her commitment to driving change.

For more episodes, visit: www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on the first of our #OnTour @  FinTech Connect, North America, special episodes is Maggie Jiang, VP, Transaction Banking Advisor at DNB.

Maggie shares insights into the ever-changing financial technology industry. She emphasizes the multi-faceted nature of FinTech and banking, underlining the importance of diverse perspectives.

She also discusses the impact of inclusive work culture on collaboration and mentorship. Discover her personal journey of overcoming challenges and advocate for community outreach to demonstrate diverse routes to success.

Thank you Maggie for joining us on The DEI Discussions #OnTour @ FinTech Connet NY.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

"I've got a vested interest in gender diversity because I have two daughters. The idea that they can't pursue whatever careers they want to because of antiquated attitudes and a lack of inclusion is absolutely abhorrent."

This week on The DEI Discussions #HumansofFinTech chapter, Nadia is joined by Adam Wheelwright, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at IG Group.

As CTO, Adam highlights his three key areas of focus: client centricity, modern engineering practices, and learning across all levels— organisational, team and individual.

Adam urges action over talk— advocating for specialist recruiters, blind CV screening, balanced representation at panels and open dialogues on progress— as he emphasises the importance of reflecting IG's diverse population of customers within their workforce.

This is a brilliant episode packed full of advice and action we can all take to #WalkTheTalk for change across the financial technology industry and beyond.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions are Sarah Wachter, Communications and Brand Manager, and Amélie Berille, Talent Acquisition Manager at Swan.

In this episode, we delve into the impactful efforts of these trailblazers at Swan as they strive to establish and foster a diverse, inclusive workplace.

Sarah emphasises the dual role of inclusion in ethics and performance, highlighting self-awareness and diverse perspectives.

Amélie, on the other hand, offers a glimpse into strategies for diversifying the workforce and collaboration with diversity-promoting organisations.

Together they underline the importance of community efforts to foster inclusivity, envisioning diversity as the norm based on contributions.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Lucinda Davis, Director of Employee Experience at Symphony.

Lucinda shares her story and dedication to promoting inclusion at work. She also provides practical tips for creating real workplace inclusivity and helping employees succeed.

Discover how Symphony fosters a diverse and empowering culture, from their successful intern program to their commitment to gender equality through the United Nations global compact initiative. 

Thank you Lucinda for joining us!
www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In the latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Sana Fatima, VP of Talent at LemondEdge.

Sana highlights the mental health support and proactive employee benefits at LemonEdge, such as therapy sessions, wellness initiatives, and educational resources. 

She shares her approach to fostering a supportive work culture through open communication, active listening, and targeted interventions. 

Leveraging her background in psychology and counselling, she emphasises the importance of creating safe spaces and addressing employee needs to ensure everyone feels valued and supported.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Richard Davies, CEO of Allica Bank. 

Richard reflects on his career experiences in different organisations, underlining the importance of both top-down and bottom-up efforts in promoting inclusivity.

Richard highlights the importance of taking real, practical steps to promote inclusivity, rather than just talking about it. He encourages people at every level to proactively instigate changes within their own spheres of impact.

At the core of his message is the notion that even small actions, when done consistently, can add up to meaningful progress. He emphasises the understanding that these collective efforts are key to making significant advancements in building a workplace and industry that is truly inclusive.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

"I think there is a misconception that people need to come from banking, finance, or technology to work in FinTech. I would like to see more apprenticeships and opportunities for new people to come in."

On today's episode of #WomenOfFinTech, Nadia is joined by Diana Ranchal, Lead Solutions Engineer at Marqeta. 

Diana shares her journey into FinTech from a modern languages background and highlights the significance of unique entry points into the industry. The conversation touches on the importance of workplace inclusion and diversity, and Diana stresses the importance of fostering a positive culture within organizations, where knowledge sharing and continual learning are encouraged. 

Sharing her views on nurturing the next generation of FinTech, Diana advocates for more apprenticeship programs and diverse hiring practices to open up opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Thank you, Diana, for your inspiring insights!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Sarah Persov, Engineering Team Lead at Dojo. 

In this episode, we delve into Sarah’s work as an Engineering Lead and a passionate champion of women in tech. We gain valuable insights into fostering diversity within the industry, particularly in promoting women's representation and empowerment. 

The pair discuss the barriers to workplace inclusion and why creating a supportive environment for every employee is crucial. We also learn about the role allies play in building a more inclusive workplace and the power of empathy in driving positive change.

This episode highlights the significance of gathering feedback and reflecting on behaviours to foster an inclusive workplace which is essential for a thriving corporate culture.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Joanna Kori, Head of People at Encompass Corporation. 

In this episode, we delve deep into Joanna's impactful work at Encompass, transforming intent into meaningful action and creating a positive impact.

Joanna leads the EDI group, which focuses on equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives, including working groups for women in tech, multiculturalism, mental health, LGBTQ+, and disability awareness. 

The pair discuss Encompass' commitment to fostering a safe and diverse environment. Encompass serves as a notable example of progress, but it also reminds us of the ongoing work that lies ahead.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In this episode, we get an exclusive insight into the launch of The Talent Equity List, rebranded from Nadia’s 19% List which launched back in 2020 to boost the visibility of female technology and sales talent in the financial services sector. 

Join us as we delve into their journey, championing diversity and equality in hiring, and ensuring that everyone grows their careers fairly.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

How do we fail forwards?

Nadia is joined by Kim Dhatt, People Experience Manager at Cogo, on this episode of the Women of FinTech podcast.

People Experience Manager: not a common job title in any industry. Kim offers us an exclusive look at just what this role entails; and why it's so important to a FinTech like Cogo.

As the industry moves through a difficult phase, employee satisfaction and retention has never been more important. We're offered a masterclass in creating reflective people strategies, with Kim sharing how she secures employee buy-in — and creates a workplace where everyone feels truly safe.

For Kim, safety is key. It adds a new dimension to the phrase of "bringing your whole self to work". It allows people to walk their talk and push the DEI agenda forward.

So how do you make this a reality in your organisation?

Join Kim and Nadia on this episode of the Women of FinTech Podcast to learn more.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Andrew Hawkins, CEO, UK and Europe at Shieldpay. 

In this episode, we get an insight into how Shieldpay has built a diverse team such as, actively listening to employees' feedback and valuing perspectives beyond leadership. Their focus is on creating a safe and inclusive environment where employees can thrive and succeed. 

Andrew acknowledges that leadership plays a vital role in creating an inclusive environment and emphasises their responsibility in this regard. And how there should be more role model leaders to encourage more of this in the industry.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Duncan Higgins, Founder & CEO of Sustainable Trading. 

Duncan shares his personal journey and what drove him to start Sustainable Trading — a non-profit organisation dedicated to implementing improved ESG practices within the financial technology industry.

Duncan emphasises the crucial link between ethical ideals and commercial benefits. He highlights that companies need to prioritise value creation, whilst still meeting the growing ESG requirements. He shares how Sustainable Trading are working towards this mission; honing in on crowdsourcing expertise and the practical changes needed.

The pair also discuss the importance of genuine workplace inclusion, with Duncan advocating for personal responsibility in supporting colleagues, and providing flexibility for parents returning to work. 

He also stresses the significance of diverse representation in conferences, events, and the media, and how Sustainable Trading collaborates with conference organisers to promote inclusivity.

www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Monica Eaton, CEO of Chargebacks911 and Fi911. 

In this episode we discover how Monica’s groundbreaking solution revolutionised e-commerce growth and established her as one of the industry's leading figures. 

As an advocate for women in technology and business leadership, she's changing the game both inside and outside the boardroom. 

Tune in to gain insights from this award-winning entrepreneur and learn how she's making a difference in education through her nonprofit organisation.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In this episode, recorded live at Money 20/20, Nadia is joined by Nina Mohanty, the Co-Founder and CEO of Bloom Money. 

Nina shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind Bloom Money, emphasizing the importance of immigrants in driving societal progress. They delve into topics such as financial literacy, advocacy, and the role of flexible work arrangements in retaining underrepresented groups.

Throughout the conversation, the concept of "Shine theory" emerges—highlighting the power of lifting each other up and creating opportunities for growth. Nadia and Nina challenge listeners to actively promote inclusivity in their workplaces by publicly acknowledging and praising colleagues who may be underrepresented or overlooked.

As Bloom Money prepares to launch its beta version, Nina expresses gratitude for the support and encouragement from the industry, underscoring the collaborative nature of the FinTech community.

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode to gain valuable insights on fostering inclusivity, making a positive impact, and walking the talk for change in the financial technology sector.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In the last edition of FinTech’s DEI Discussions: Confidence Series, Nadia is joined by Genevieve Dozier, Founder & CEO of Warpaint Consulting. Genevieve shares her journey in finance and fintech, emphasizing the importance of confidence. 

She discusses how attending women-focused seminars and reading "The Confidence Code" by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman helped her build self-belief and overcome challenges. 

Genevieve highlights her role in the Money 2020 Rise Up program, which empowers future female leaders, and stresses the value of storytelling in fostering personal and professional growth. 

She advocates for genuine allyship and inclusive hiring practices to create supportive, transparent, and diverse workplaces.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

We’re back at Money20/20 for this special #OnTour episode of The DEI Discussions! And this time Nadia is joined by Payal Raina, Founder of FinTech B2B Marketing and Global Head of Marketing at Torstone Technology.

We explore the fantastic success of Payal’s passion project: the FinTech B2B Marketing community. With over 4000 members, she is catalysing connections and sparking innovation amidst leading marketeers.

And we celebrate the first marketing panel ever at Money20/20. Putting important ideas in front of the right people, Payal recounts why this is such an important move.

The pair close with an important discussion on DEI. Payal stresses the biggest challenge is changing people’s mindsets. And marketing plays a crucial role in addressing this.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Birce Ciravoglu, M&A & Expansion Director at Papara.

In this episode, we explore Birce's remarkable journey at Papara, a top FinTech company in Turkey. Birce is passionate about bridging the gap and connecting technology with finance and has played a crucial role in transforming the financial landscape in Turkey.

Birce is a strong advocate for inclusion and emphasises that diversity is key to being innovative and successful. We learn about how Papara promotes inclusivity through their policies and a women-in-tech boot camp, these efforts have contributed to their impressive achievements.

Being a strong supporter of women, she believes that our unique qualities make us strong, not weak. We’re encouraged to embrace our differences and not let societal pressures hold us back.

Tune in as we delve into Birce's remarkable journey, her efforts to foster inclusion and find out what more you can do to implement workplace inclusion. 

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

The DEI Discussions headed to Money20/20 to record exclusive episodes of The DEI Discussions.

Joining Nadia on the first of our #OnTour @ Money 20/20 special episodes is Sandi Samantaray, VP Product at Thredd.

There's been a recent influx in firms hiring Product Managers or Specialists — but what exactly does that role entail?

Sandi offers us a fantastic insight into what exactly a career in product means, and how you can break into this exciting industry.

We also look at how product teams are tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing our industry, particularly fraud. And we hone in on the importance of forming marketplace partnerships in addressing industry-wide issues.

But when it comes to inclusion, action must start at home first. A commitment to a positive, inclusive culture must be present at all levels — or risk it breaking.

Thank you Sandi for joining us on The DEI Discussions #OnTour @ Money20/20.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Zhenya Winter, Head of Global Marketing for Financial Messaging at Bottomline Technologies.

In this episode, Zhenya shares her expertise in financial messaging—a critical component that encompasses payments, connectivity, messaging, and orchestration. She plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth and efficient transactions for businesses and customers alike.

Whether it's promoting women in leadership positions or championing the success of her team members, she strives to be a collaborative leader who supports and empowers her colleagues.

Zhenya passionately advocates breaking the silence around menopause. She emphasises the significance of education and awareness for both women and men in the workplace, aiming to foster inclusive and supportive workplaces.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Tasha Chouhan, UK & IE Banking Director at Tink. 

Tasha discusses Tink's focus on customer-centricity, personalisation, and driving change in financial services through data and payment services. 

The pair reflect on the progress and challenges of diversity within the industry, highlighting the lack of representation, especially for women in sales and leadership. 

Tasha shares her involvement in mentoring programs and her efforts to increase the presence of women, particularly in tech and sales roles.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Elizabeth Rucker, Director of Sales and Shannon McCann, Director of Marketing at VizyPay.

In this episode, Shannon and Elizabeth share how VizPay’s commitment to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace has become a key factor in their success.

We discover the values that make VizyPay an exceptional place to work, where individuals are encouraged to be themselves and voice their opinions. 

Hear about their unique approach to hiring off the resume, which brings fresh perspectives and fuels creativity in marketing. Explore their close-knit team culture and the importance of team bonding activities that foster collaboration.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

This is the final instalment of The Advocate Series: conversations that tackle some of the real issues in the workplace that hold us all back.

The final episode sees us cover Promotion. The three industry experts joining Nadia this time are:

- Tina Shata, Senior IT Analyst at TD Securities 
- Cecil Adjalo, Co-Founder and COO at Foundervine 
- Kenzy Goodwin, Managing Partner at Finceler8

Do you know how to ask for a promotion? Do you know what it takes to get a promotion? Would you know how to advocate for someone that is working towards a promotion?

Join Nadia, Tina, Cecil and Kenzy as they answer your most pressing concerns, and support your professional development.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of the ground-breaking Women of FinTech Podcast is Joann Egunjobi, Data Engineer at Currencycloud.

When the Pandemic hit, Joann lost her job in marketing and prompted a professional pivot. After taking a Data Engineering bootcamp, Joann entered the world of technology. She took that often difficult first step towards making a change.

Joann has witnessed first-hand the positive benefits of mentorship and career support. Having received a promotion within her first year at Currencycloud, Joann shares how important it is to embrace people with unconventional backgrounds, and give them a chance to flourish in a new environment.

And the pair talk gender diversity in technology. Inclusion includes everyone. And making a positive, representative change demands your input. So how does Joann suggest you get involved?

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In this episode of the DEI Discussions podcast series, Nadia welcomes June Ahi, Chief People Officer at Cashflows. 

In their discussions, June emphasizes the importance of championing inclusion, particularly in the context of neurodiversity. She shares her passion for breaking the stigma and highlights the valuable skills and experiences that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table. 

June also discusses how Cashflows foster psychological safety by giving employees a voice and involving them in shaping the company's values and vision. Through workshops and open dialogue, they ensure that everyone feels valued, included, and part of the bigger picture. 

June's personal connection to neurodiversity fuels her commitment to creating a workplace environment where diverse talents are recognized as superpowers, leading to greater success and innovation within the industry.

Thank you, June, for joining us and sharing your valuable insights!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Katharina Lueth, CCO & Managing Director at Raisin.

In this podcast episode, Katharina emphasises the significance of workplace inclusion, discussing both gender equality and the often-overlooked aspects of background and introvert/extrovert traits. 

She delves into how Raisin highly values diversity and has implemented various inclusion initiatives. 

Katharina advocates for a conscious effort to combat unconscious bias in recruitment and highlights the numerous benefits that diverse teams bring. 

Ultimately, she argues that workplace inclusion is not just a moral imperative but also leads to enhanced performance and a better society as a whole.

Thank you Katharina for joining us on the Women of FinTech Podcast!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In the third edition of FinTech’s DEI Discussions: Confidence Series, Nadia is joined by Emma Donovan, Co-Founder & Director of Dapper. Emma discusses her career transition to branding, emphasising the importance of clarity of purpose and personal branding for building confidence. 

She introduces "quiet confidence," where confidence stems from self-assurance without comparing oneself to others, and highlights the critical role of company branding in establishing trust and credibility. 

Emma advises taking small, consistent steps in personal and professional branding and stresses the importance of creating an inclusive workplace that fosters confidence and joy. 

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Ninika Nanda, Head of Product Management, Technology at Compare the Market. 

In this episode, we explore Ninika’s strong belief in helping others and making the most of her environment, which has led to success in both her work and personal life.

The pair discuss the progress made in championing inclusion, where Ninika emphasises the need to increase visibility for female role models, challenge societal narratives, and implement DE&I as core values. 

Discover the transformative power of coaching and mentoring, and the importance of walking the talk as a leader, fostering a positive company culture that welcomes innovation and creates opportunities for inclusion.

Thank you Ninika for joining us on the Women of FinTech Podcast!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Welcome back to The DEI Discussions #WomenOfFinTech. Today, Nadia is joined by the fantastic Sanghmitra Adhage, OEMS Development Lead and Director at TS Imagine. 

Sanghmitra shares her career journey, starting with her interest in technology during secondary school in Mumbai, India, and her subsequent experience working in software development in the UK for over 10 years. She celebrates the learning and challenges she has encountered in the finance and technology industry.

The conversation also focuses on the perception of women in technology and how to attract more women to the field. Sanghmitra highlights the need to introduce technology career options to school children.

As a hiring manager, she stresses the importance of unbiased recruitment processes based on skills and interests rather than gender or background. She also emphasizes the need for an inclusive and encouraging work culture that promotes diversity and provides opportunities for growth.

Thank you, Sanghmitra, for sharing your inspiring story!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Emmy Granström, Global Head of Marketing and Alicia Ariffin, Global Head of People and Culture at SteelEye. 

Emmy and Alicia share how their remarkable integration of trades and communications is transforming the FinTech landscape. SteelEye's success goes beyond technology—it's the exceptional individuals driving it. 

In this episode, they delve into SteelEye's commitment to inclusivity, from championing women's benefits and driving allyship to addressing challenges faced by pregnant employees. 

They also explore the essential elements for fostering workplace inclusion in FinTech and discover how companies can embrace diversity to thrive in this ever-evolving industry.

Thank you Emmy and Alicia for joining us on the Women of FinTech Podcast!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

On this episode of The DEI Discussions, Nadia welcomes Lauren Carter, Commercial Director of DEMICA.

The pair put a focus on evolution. Demica is doing incredible work to develop their inclusive practices — building structures, working groups and policies that reflect authentic employee needs. Critically, they ensure inclusion is embedded, not simply advertised; it is an actionable part of the day-to-day.

Notably, Demica has implemented family-friendly policies. Recognising different family arrangements and what's actually needed, Lauren and the team are paving the way for a new approach to parenthood.

And Nadia and Lauren share how policies such as the latter can be transferred to the wider industry. Understanding the breadth of perceptions in the industry, and the potential each holds, is key to elevating financial technology to new heights.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

The DEI Discussions is delighted to bring The Advocate Series: conversations that tackle some of the real issues in the workplace that hold us all back.

In the second episode of this exclusive series, we gather industry experts to discuss money. Joining Nadia is:

- Isabel Pitt, Product Director at Shieldpay
- Will Marwick, CEO at IFX Payments
- Neha Mittal, VP Europe at Viola Credit

Asking for a pay rise, understanding benefits and bonuses, negotiating a salary when starting a new role: all often tricky, sometimes awkward, conversations.

Amidst an ever-expanding pool of benefits, money will always play a role in talent retention, and in explaining why people leave firms.

Nadia speaks with Isabel, Will and Neha to remove the taboo around money. They share their understanding and experiences on the subject, delving into: how you should ask for a pay rise; why the subject of money is often a tricky one; and how to remove the stress around the matter. 

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Alisa DiCaprio, Chief Economist at R3. 

Alisa discusses R3, who are at the forefront of enabling the secure exchange of value in regulated industries where trust is crucial. Alisa delves into R3's mission, which focuses on establishing an open and connected digital economy. 

During their discussion, they delve into the significant impact this sector has in transforming industries. They explore the intriguing patterns of growth and decline, along with the crucial focus on governance within the realm of digital currency.

The pair also address the subject of gender equality reflecting on how much progress has been made over the years, acknowledging that while bias still exists, it has become more unconscious. However, there is still much work to be done to achieve full equity.

Thank you Alisa for joining us on the Women of FinTech Podcast!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of the Women of FinTech Podcast is Silvia Mensdorff-Pouilly, SVP Head of EMEA Corporates & International Banking at FIS, and the Co-Founder of the European Women’s Payment Network (EWPN).

The EWPN is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated networks in the industry — and Silvia offers us an exclusive look at their eye-opening origins. Tackling unconscious bias and advocating for proactive change, the EWPN is catalysing a positive shift in the payments space.

This episode is a masterclass in positive disruption. We are shown how to elevate, sponsor and advocate for our female colleagues. We’re reminded to do that even when they’re not in the room. We’re reminded that allyship isn’t a token gesture.

And Silvia explores the various lenses through which we should consider diversity. In her role as Head of EMEA, Silvia is frequently exposed to differing backgrounds and experiences — and it is this breadth of diversity that can make our industry so powerful. It means greater diversity of thought, greater innovation, and sponsoring a more inclusive future.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia on this episode of The DEI Discussions is Elke Bachler, Head of Cyber Security Services at Marsh.

Cyber Security, as we know it, is a relatively new field; and it continues to change rapidly with new automation and tools being devised to serve not only the good customers, but also the "bad ones".

And as Elke stresses, this places unique demands on talent acquisition. What skillsets and experience are you looking for? Do we need to put a greater demand on transferable skills? What sort of mindset does it take to work in cyber security?

This is where diversity becomes so crucially important. Nadia and Elke discuss the role diversity of thought plays in crafting effective solutions to tackle the bad players in the space. You need to put yourself into a unique pair of shoes; remove yourself from the goals of cyber security. Linear thinking doesn't invite this.

Thank you Elke for joining us on the Women of FinTech Podcast!

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia live from FIX Trading Community EMEA Trading Conference for this episode of The Humans of FinTech Podcast is Alex Chow, Investment Operations Policy Lead at The Investment Association.

This episode puts evolution in the spotlight. The pair focus on recent technological advancements, honing in on the ever-increasing significance of automation.

Whilst we can't deny the benefits increased automation will bring to the industry, Alex reminds us to consider the human element in this evolution. Are jobs at risk? Are technologists now competing with machines?

The pair continue the focus on people, looking at diversity in financial technology. Alex hones in on the work we can do to improve diversity at events — ensuring representation is the norm, not a novelty. And looking to businesses, Alex looks at inclusive hiring practices that will ensure no one is excluded from financial technology.

Remember: we must celebrate the wins but there's more to be done.

Thank you Alex for joining us on the Humans of FinTech Podcast! Learn more about the FIX Trading Community and their upcoming events here:
https://www.fixtrading.org/fix-events/

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

The DEI Discussions is delighted to bring The Advocate Series: conversations that tackle some of the real issues in the workplace that hold us all back.

In the first of this exclusive series, we gather industry experts to discuss remote recognition. Joining Nadia is:

- Suresh Vaghjiani, CEO of CLOWD9
- Laura Rofe, Director of Partner Development at PPRO
- Joanne Biggadike, Deputy Head of Data UK at DUAL Group

In this new remote working era, an increasing number of professionals state they struggle to be seen, heard and valued. 

This narrative can't continue if we want the most exceptional talent to remain in the space and be part of an exciting future.

Suresh, Laura and Joanne share their insights into communication, presentation and representation that ensures people are recognised for the work they do. They break the stigma around working from home; confront damaging cultures; and shed a new light on how we can recognise people fairly whilst working remotely. 

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

In the second edition of FinTech’s DEI Discussions: Confidence Series, Nadia is joined by Martina Doherty, Business Psychologist and Executive Coach at MD Consulting Ltd. 

Martina emphasises the importance of distinguishing between confidence, which is situational and built through practice, and self-esteem, which is a deeper sense of personal value.

She highlights the challenges leaders face when promoted without adequate training in managing people and underscores the need for continuous practice to develop confidence. 

Martina advocates for empathetic listening as a key to fostering inclusivity, urging listeners to understand and value diverse perspectives. She also encourages self-awareness and focusing on personal strengths to build confidence and achieve excellence.

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia live from FIX Trading Community EMEA Trading Conference for this episode of The DEI Discussions is Sumit Kumar, Global head of Fixed Connectivity at LiquidityBook.

We gain an exclusive look at Sumit's role at LiquidityBook; and gain insights from the vendor onboarding panel he featured on here at the FIX Trading Conference.
Sumit explores efficiency in this onboarding process, and the factors that explain LiquidityBook's rising success.

Sumit builds on this conversation around efficiency and success, exploring the role DE&I has in this. The team at LiquidityBook are acutely aware of the positive relationship between diversity and growth, attributing a large part of their success to an inclusive workforce.

The impact diversity of thought can have on the workplace should not be understated, and for Sumit this sits at the heart of operations. The pair discuss how you can invite diversity into the workplace, and crucially, make it an inherent part of the business.

www.harringtonstarr.com

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia live from FIX Trading Community EMEA Trading Conference for this episode of The DEI Discussions is Kieran Stewart, Global Head of Service Delivery for ITRS Group.


Volatility, disruption and variability appear to be synonymous with the trading space — and Kieran helps us explore the positive connotations of this environment. There is an exciting future on the horizon, and ITRS Group are at the fore of this.


But what will take this space to a new level?


Diversity: diversity of voices; diversity of input; diversity in leadership. To make the technology of the future a future-proof concept, it needs to reflect the inclusive landscape that is emerging. Making this a reality is not a straightforward task but for Kieran, it starts with looking critically at our talent acquisition strategies.


Thank you Kieran for joining us on the Humans of FinTech Podcast! Learn more about the FIX Trading Community and their upcoming events here:
https://www.fixtrading.org/fix-events/

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com

Joining Nadia live from the FIX Trading Community EMEA Trading Conference for this episode of The DEI Discussions is Steve Grob, Founder of Vision57.

Steve shares his passion for finding cool FinTechs that can change the face of capital markets. Having moderated a panel at the conference, he discusses how differing marketplace players are facilitating the growth of such firms — highlighting their distinct go-to-market strategies that suggest a keen appetite for disruption.

He shares his thoughts on the biggest opportunities, including the potential of low-code technology to empower people; and hones in on the human side of AI and robotics.

Additionally, Steve discusses the issue of diversity and inclusion in financial technology, particularly the lack of diversity in exhibition panels. The FIX EMEA Trading Conference has made crucial steps into ensuring inclusion is embedded into their discussions, but there are measures we must all adopt to make this the industry norm.

Learn more about the FIX Trading Community and their upcoming events here: https://www.fixtrading.org/fix-events/

FinTech's DEI Discussions is powered by Harrington Starr, global leaders in Financial Technology Recruitment. For more episodes or recruitment advice, please visit our website www.harringtonstarr.com