Lower Interest Rates, Higher Demand: Why Fintech Firms Must Act Now to Secure Top Talent

| 3 minutes

As interest rates begin to ease, the lending landscape is poised for transformative change. With the Federal Reserve signaling potential rate cuts, the fintech industry stands at the threshold of a significant shift. So what does this mean for talent in the industry? 

The Impact of Lower Interest Rates on Borrowing and Growth

Lower interest rates are generally associated with increased borrowing activity. For fintech firms, this could lead to a surge in demand for structured financial products, services, and organizational growth. Companies like LendingClub, who have over 20 open positions on their careers page, have adeptly navigated high-interest-rate environments, are in a prime position to capitalize on this shift.

Responding to Changing Market Conditions

New SaaS platforms are often spotlighted as leading the charge in all market conditions and HUSTL banking is no exception. The HUSTL platform is designed specifically for freelancers, addressing the unique financial challenges faced by gig workers. This kind of targeted innovation highlights the expanding scope of fintech’s influence in response to changing market conditions.

Haboo Money is preparing to introduce dynamic debt repayment solutions tailored to borrowers’ financial situations, a crucial innovation in a low-rate environment where effective debt management is paramount.

The Role of Innovation in a Low-Rate Environment

The fintech industry is witnessing a surge in innovative launches, reflecting the evolving needs of borrowers and the broader market. Fortuna Bank in Ohio, set to open as the state’s first female-led bank, is a prime example. The bank promises tailored services for small businesses, which are likely to benefit from lower interest rates and increased access to capital. This focus on specialized services underlines the importance of innovation in a competitive fintech landscape.

Another example is Sync Savings, a start-up that provides embedded savings solutions for financial institutions. This diversification of fintech offerings illustrates how companies are adapting to the new interest rate environment by developing products that cater to the changing needs of their clients.

Opportunities for Fintech Recruitment

As the fintech industry grows in response to lower interest rates, so too does the demand for talent, particularly sales talent. Companies will need to expand their teams to keep pace with the increased demand for their products and services. This presents an opportunity for fintech recruitment, as firms will be looking to hire individuals with the skills and expertise necessary to drive innovation with a good track record and experience.

The easing of interest rates is set to have a profound impact on the fintech industry, driving growth and innovation across the sector. By embracing innovation and expanding their teams, these firms can not only navigate the changing landscape but also lead the way in shaping the future of lending in the fintech industry.

Whether you’re looking to find your next role in fintech or need to source top talent for your sales team, Finiti is here to help. Reach out to us today to discuss how we can support your needs and drive your success in this dynamic industry.

Blockchain’s Financial Revolution: New Frontiers in Fintech and Recruitment

| 4 minutes

Blockchain technology is revolutionizing industries, with fintech leading as one of the most impacted sectors. As the 5th most influential technology globally, blockchain is disrupting financial services in powerful ways. It promises enhanced transparency, privacy, and security while streamlining business processes. Far from a fleeting trend, blockchain is evolving rapidly and becoming a cornerstone of the financial future.

Shaping Recruitment in Fintech

The rise of blockchain has introduced a shift in fintech recruitment. The demand for blockchain expertise is higher than ever, but the talent pool is relatively small. Few high-level candidates possess deep blockchain experience, which has slowed the industry’s growth to some extent. However, this gap presents an exciting opportunity for professionals looking to advance within their fintech careers. With blockchain evolving constantly, even those with limited experience can become leaders in the space as they develop their skills and knowledge around the technology.

Whilst there aren’t 20 years of experience to draw upon, the industry’s fast pace and emerging nature make it fertile ground for dynamic talent to step in and shape its future.  

Blockchain’s Impact on the Financial Sector

Blockchain is reshaping financial institutions in unprecedented ways, creating an entirely new market rather than replacing existing systems. It has removed traditional barriers, offering enhanced security, eliminating middlemen, and boosting transparency. Fintech companies are in a race to develop blockchain platforms that cater to unique transaction types across various contexts. For example, Visa and MasterCard, where transaction speed and cost are critical, are both investing heavily in blockchain to improve the efficiency of cross-border payments. Blockchain reduces settlement times from days to minutes, enabling these companies to offer faster, more cost-effective services, especially in areas where traditional banking infrastructure is lacking.

For consumers, blockchain offers faster transactions, lower costs, and improved transparency. While traditional financial institutions are unlikely to disappear completely, blockchain allows them to reduce significant portions of their operating costs, resulting in more affordable and accessible services.

Blockchain in Action

In management and operations, blockchain streamlines internal processes and information sharing by creating secure, shared ledgers for business-critical information. This reduces administrative overhead and enhances the accuracy and reliability of data.

In digital contracting, blockchain is revolutionizing how agreements are executed. Companies like Accenture are implementing blockchain-enabled smart contracts, which automatically execute contract terms when conditions are met. These smart contracts ensure transparency and security in contract revisions and activities, reducing the potential for disputes and errors.

Blockchain’s impact extends to the realm of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, which rely on blockchain to process and record transactions securely. The transparency and security of these blockchain networks ensure that each transaction is irreversible and viewable by anyone, providing a robust and trustworthy platform for digital currencies.

The Potential of Blockchain Technology

The potential of blockchain extends far beyond fintech. It can transform global industries by improving data handling, security, and efficiency in business processes, making it an ideal solution for industries ranging from supply chain management to healthcare. While some may feel uncertainty around the long-term sustainability of cryptocurrencies and the complexity of blockchain, these hurdles are part of an evolving landscape. Blockchain is constantly being refined, and many believe it will ultimately change for the better, becoming even more reliable, accessible, and secure. 

For fintech professionals, staying ahead of blockchain developments is essential. The technology will continue to shape itself in the coming years, opening new avenues for growth and innovation. As blockchain grows and adapts, the professionals working within the space need to as well.

Finiti has extensive experience hiring sales leaders and their teams in blockchain-related tech firms. Finiti was responsible for hiring the UK, Europe, and US sales teams for Earthport, the cross-border payment solutions company acquired by Visa. Right now, we are working on a number of relevant roles in the space, including in the crypto and digital assets market, where we are hiring salespeople in Europe.

Are you looking to expand your fintech sales team? Let us help you grow and thrive. Get in touch with us today to explore how Finiti Search can help empower your team.

The Role of ESG Integration in Fintech’s Evolution: Navigating Opportunities

| 4 minutes

In recent years, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have emerged as key pillars guiding decision-making processes, reshaping investment strategies, product development, and risk management practices. This shift not only reflects a growing societal consciousness but also presents fintech firms with an array of opportunities and risks as they navigate the integration of ESG criteria into their operations.

ESG in Fintech:

The rise of ESG principles within fintech is not merely a trend but a fundamental reevaluation of values and priorities. According to recent studies, 54% of corporate directors acknowledge the direct link between ESG issues and their company’s strategy. This indicates a gradual recognition of the importance of strategic ESG considerations with room for further adoption and implementation.

Opportunities (and Risks) for Fintech Companies:

Integrating ESG factors into fintech operations presents numerous opportunities. By aligning with ESG initiatives, companies can foster innovation, attract socially responsible investors, and enhance brand reputation. Also, leveraging this criteria enables fintech firms to address societal and environmental challenges while generating sustainable long-term value.

Ignoring ESG considerations poses risks including administrative scrutiny, reputational damage, and loss of competitive advantage. 49% of investors share that they would no longer invest in companies that aren’t taking action on ESG issues. In an era where consumers and investors increasingly demand transparency and accountability, overlooking ESG factors, prioritization of sustainability and social impact can lead to detrimental consequences like legal repercussions and fines.

Technological Solutions for ESG Integration:

From ESG data analytics to impact investing platforms, sustainable finance products, and ESG risk assessment tools, technology is empowering financial institutions to make informed decisions and drive positive impact. These technological solutions not only facilitate ESG integration but also enable companies to measure and track their sustainability performance effectively.

A great example of this is Clarity AI, a dynamic fintech startup in the ESG sector. Strongly values-driven, Clarity AI sought diverse candidates who shared their vision of having a positive impact on the world through a focus on sustainability. 

Machine learning is at the heart of Clarity AI’s market-leading sustainability tech, allowing it to regularly analyze more than 2 million data points. The platform’s customizability, enabling users to report on as much or as little as needed and break down performance against SDGs at a product or service level, has been instrumental in the firm raising $80 million since 2017.

Best Practices for ESG Integration in Fintech:

Within the fintech industry, the market for ESG has a projected growth rate of around 20% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in 2024. For fintech companies seeking to embed ESG considerations into their business strategies, adopting best practices is essential. Establishing clear ESG policies, conducting materiality assessments, setting sustainability goals, and engaging stakeholders are paramount. Case studies of fintech firms that have successfully implemented ESG initiatives can provide valuable insights and serve as guiding examples for others in the industry.

The integration of ESG principles represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of fintech. By embracing ESG criteria, companies can not only drive innovation and attract investors but also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. As the market for ESG fintech continues to grow, fintech firms must seize the opportunity to lead by example, recognizing that long-term success lies in the alignment of financial performance with environmental and social impact.

As fintech companies navigate this evolving landscape, embracing ESG principles is not only a strategic imperative but also a moral obligation, ensuring that financial innovation is synonymous with sustainability and societal impact.

Is your fintech sales team eager to expand and navigate the evolving landscape of ESG integration? Let us help you grow and thrive. Get in touch with us today to explore how Finiti can help empower your team to seize new opportunities.

Breaking Barriers – The Rise of Women In Fintech

| 3 minutes

In the ever-evolving landscape of finance and technology, one undeniable truth emerges: diversity drives innovation. As the Fintech industry continues its upward trajectory, addressing and bridging the gender gap grows more urgent. Fortunately, strides are being made to shatter stereotypes and pave the way for a more inclusive future.

Despite its booming success, Fintech has combated a glaring gender disparity. Women comprise only 4% of CEOs, 18% of executive committee members, and 7.7% of entrepreneurs. However, within these figures lies a potential for positive change — a collective commitment to improvement.

Historically entrenched biases and stereotypes have hindered women’s progress, creating barriers to entry and advancement. However, the tide is turning as companies increasingly recognize the value of diverse perspectives. Companies are starting to see the benefits of workplace diversity when evaluating profitability, productivity, employee recruitment and retention, job satisfaction and performance, and innovation and creativity.

“10% of salespeople are women and more than 75%  of our clients request to see a diverse range of candidates as a key part of working together,” says Kate Sharland, Co-Founder and Client Director at Finiti. 

“We continue to see a gap in industry experience at leadership level between male and female candidates, which we are continually trying to address and change for the future,” explains Sharland.  

Finiti’s clients, in particular, are driving this change. With a heightened emphasis on diversity and inclusion, they are insistent on interviewing and inclined to hire female and diverse candidates. This shift in client preferences not only reflects a moral imperative but also a recognition of the benefits that diverse teams bring to the table. 

Another contributing factor to the gender gap in Fintech is the disproportionate representation of women in STEM subjects. While strides have been made to encourage more women to pursue careers in technology, there is still much work to be done. Initiatives aimed at fostering interest in STEM among young girls and providing support and mentorship to women in tech are crucial steps in addressing this imbalance.

Additionally, the issue extends beyond recruitment to venture capital funding. Male-led startups often receive preferential treatment, perpetuating a cycle of male dominance in entrepreneurship. However, as awareness grows around the importance of diversity in driving innovation and profitability, investors are increasingly recognizing the value of female-led ventures.

The path to gender parity in Fintech may be paved with challenges, but the momentum is undeniably building. By dismantling systemic barriers, championing diversity, and fostering an inclusive culture, we can unlock the full potential of the industry. As we look at successful women like Cristina Junqueira, Co-Founder of Nubank, and Emilie Choi, President and COO of Coinbase, let us find motivation in our futures and remain committed to creating a more equitable and vibrant fintech ecosystem for all. Together, we can transform barriers into bridges and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.

 If you are interested in supporting female talent in the fintech industry, some organizations advocate for policies to translate awareness into tangible change. Female Innovators Lab and 100 Women in Finance are great resources.

At Finiti, we are proud to be a women-owned and led business. Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they are fundamental principles that guide us and shape us into who we are. Our commitment to championing female talent and empowering women in Fintech is unwavering.

If you are looking to grow your Fintech sales team, get in touch with us.

Smart Job Hunting: How to Recognise Red Flags in the Hiring Process

| 5 minutes

When you’re looking for a new job, it’s easy to put a lot of pressure on yourself to make a great impression with potential employers. 

But when it’s done well, the recruitment process can and should be a two-way street. 

Changing jobs is a big upheaval, and it’s important to make the right move. Almost a third of employees have quit a job within the first six months at some point in their career. 

But how can you tell whether you’re stepping up to your dream role or into a nightmare before you hand in your notice and sign on the dotted line?

Here are eight red flags to watch out for. 

  1. A Chaotic recruitment process 

Last-minute interview requests, rescheduling, or a hiring process that seems either rushed or very slow are all potential red flags. 

An interview process takes time and effort, and you want to see that reflected back in a structured, proportionate recruitment process.

Put this to the test by asking for details of the recruitment process and timings. Employers that are focused on finding great people will invest time in planning out the process upfront. 

  1. A lack of communication 

The way a company communicates before you’re part of the team gives a good idea what they’ll be like to work for. 

A shocking 75% of job hunters have been ghosted by a potential employer or their agency – even after an interview. 

Clear, friendly, and timely communication, as well as a dedicated point of contact throughout the process is a good sign. 

  1. A vague job description

Almost three-quarters of hiring managers say they provide clear job descriptions, but only 36% of candidates agree. Many employers don’t provide a job description at all. 

Hiring Managers or recruiters should be able to really clearly explain the role and its responsibilities, going beyond the published job description to paint a picture of what the role and company are like. 

In startups, a CEO or founder is often the one defining these roles and in many instances, there may be an element of the unknown for a new strategic hire or new team. As recruiters, our background can help to solidify what’s required and that finer detail. 

Delving into role nuances, immediate priorities, and cultural fit is essential for both hiring managers / recruiters and candidates. This clarity facilitates informed decisions, fosters trust, and aligns expectations for a successful partnership.

This allows both sides to figure out if you’re a good fit, avoiding wasting valuable time if not.

  1. No interest in your motivations 

The recruitment process is about much more than whether someone can do the job. It’s about finding a great fit, and 57% of candidates see a lack of shared values as a deal breaker. 

If a potential employer isn’t asking about why you want a new job and what you’re looking for from the move, that’s a red flag. 

Understanding a candidate’s motivations provides insight into their alignment with the company’s mission and culture. Ignoring this aspect can lead to mismatches down the line.

Effective recruitment involves mutual understanding and alignment of the opportunity to grow. Employers should demonstrate genuine interest in candidates’ career aspirations, ensuring a symbiotic relationship where both parties can thrive. 

  1. Reluctance to talk about pay and benefits

Only around 12% of job listings in the US include the salary, so it’s important that potential employers are happy to have an open, transparent conversation about remuneration once you’re in the recruitment process. 

This is especially true for sales roles, where different types of bonus structure can significantly impact the final take-home. 

  1. Not being open to questions 

Not making time for or half-hearted answers to candidate questions is a red flag. Getting different answers from different people can also be a warning sign. 

If a company makes time to listen to you and answer your questions as a candidate, it’s a good sign they’ll do the same with their employees. 

  1. An unprepared interviewer

Interviews are a time-consuming part of the recruitment process with candidates investing an average of 5-10 hours in prep time alone. 

There’s nothing worse than an interviewer that’s still reading your CV as you answer their first question or someone who doesn’t seem to know what questions they want to ask. 

If an interviewer hasn’t had time to read your CV and think about what they want to ask you specifically, it’s a sign that they might be interviewing too many candidates focusing on quantity rather than quality or simply not prioritising the recruitment process.

  1. Too many interviews

Whether it’s lots of people on the panel or just many, many rounds of interviews, an inflated recruitment process is a red flag. 

For senior roles, there’s typically three interview rounds, occasionally four if it’s a close call between two similar candidates. 

Wanting sign-off from lots of stakeholders could indicate a lack of autonomy within the company or indecision around the role and what they’re looking for. 

Look for an employer that’s respectful of your time with a clear idea of what makes a great candidate for their business. 

Red flags or not, sometimes it all comes down to something you can’t quite put your finger on. Are you excited by the role? Did you get that energy back from the employer? Is there chemistry?

At Finiti, we prioritise not just filling roles but ensuring the right fit for both candidates and clients. We take the time to advise clients on the recruitment process while deeply understanding a candidate’s real motivations and drivers for seeking a new role, ensuring these align with the opportunities presented.

As the only specialist Fintech sales recruiters, we often place candidates multiple times throughout their careers, and there’s a real sense of matchmaking behind successful recruitment. Our expertise lies not just in matching skills but in understanding the dynamics of the Fintech industry and the unique attributes that lead to long-term success.

Whether you’re on the hunt for your perfect match now or want to be part of our talent network for future opportunities, get in touch

Strategies for Maximising Job Packages: Navigating Salary Constraints

| 5 minutes

You’ve done it. You’ve found that next big hire for your Sales Team. They’re perfect for the role. Job done, right? 

Finding the right person isn’t the end of the recruitment process. Before you start planning their induction and forwarding meeting invites, there’s still the delicate process of finalising the job package. 

But what happens when you don’t have any wiggle room on salary? 

Here’s our five top tips for taking a more holistic approach to job packages that can make all the difference between losing top talent and making sure they sign on the dotted line. 

  1. Unlocking hidden benefits 

When there’s a lot to communicate in a job spec, benefits are often the first thing to get condensed or cut. 

Two-thirds say benefits are as important if not more important than salary, with a similar percentage saying benefits will be a key priority when applying for their next role.  

Whether it’s tangible benefits, like healthcare or an on-site gym, or culture-based benefits, like team events and remote working, make sure you communicate the full breadth of benefits the job package includes. 

  1. Tailoring bonus structures

There might not be any stretch when it comes to base salary, but there are many different bonus structures out there that can help attract and retain top sales talent. 

Think about which activities drive sales for your business and get creative with a tiered bonus structure. You could also add in activity-based bonuses for the initial few months to make sure the candidate’s take-home gets a boost right from the start. 

What’s great about generous bonus structures is that when they win, so do you. 

  1. Negotiating equity and stock options 

An alternative to a bigger salary in the short term is to offer new starters a stake in the company. 

The exact amount you’re able to offer depends on a number of factors, with the average equity share in startups hovering around 1%

Offering equity or stocks shows that you’re committed to both them as a team member and to the company’s growth in the long-term, even if the short term salary might not be what they had in mind. 

  1. Customising benefit packages

There’s much more to a job package than just the salary; the right benefits can be the deciding factor between two similar offers, even when the other salary is higher. 

Over four in ten employees don’t think their current company’s benefit package meets their needs, and half even say they’d accept a pay reduction for a more tailored benefits package. 

To use this strategy effectively, talk to the candidate to find out what they really value. If they have young kids at home, flexible working might be the benefit that wins them over, or if their family is overseas the ability to work from a different timezone for a month a year might suit them best. 

Take the time to understand the things beyond salary that matter to a candidate and create a benefits package that’s perfectly tailored to what works for them. This shows that you’re being as flexible as possible in the areas where you do have stretch. 

  1. Emphasising career growth opportunities

If you’re talking salaries with a candidate, chances are they like you as much as you like them. They’re picturing themselves as part of the team – they’re invested. 

Capitalise on that interest and a great mutual fit by painting a picture of what their long-term career with you could look like. 

Progression could mean a promotion, but it can include other learning perks too. A huge 86% say that they’d change jobs if another company offered more opportunities for development. 

Where possible, share examples of others who’ve joined your business at the same level and have progressed, as well as how you support learning and development throughout your business.  

Communicating your offer

Articulating the full range of what you offer as an employer is crucial to navigating that tricky final stage of the recruitment process. 

Taking a clear, proactive approach to understanding a candidate’s expectations at the start of a process can also avoid losing time or, even worse, a successful candidate at the final hurdle. 

We’ve been curating our network of top Fintech sales talent for twenty years, often placing top talent multiple times throughout their career. 

To learn more about how we ensure a smooth, successful recruitment process by getting to know candidates and their expectations, get in touch with the team at Finiti for a friendly chat.  

2024 Fintech Market Outlook: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for CEOs

| 7 minutes

In the ever-evolving world of fintech, CEOs must remain vigilant and forward-thinking to navigate the shifting landscape successfully. 

As we approach 2024, the fintech industry is poised for significant transformations. Let’s see what trends, challenges and opportunities will shape the fintech market in the coming year.

Trends in Fintech for 2024

1. Digital Transformation Acceleration

The pandemic expedited digital transformation across industries, and fintech is no exception. 

A substantial 92% of finance leaders have already recognized the value derived from AI within their business operations. Additionally, a noteworthy 68% express openness to incorporating AI insights when navigating critical business decisions.

As we move into 2024, we anticipate a continued focus on enhancing digital capabilities, improving user experiences, and embracing automation and artificial intelligence to streamline financial services.

2. Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Integration

Blockchain and cryptocurrencies will play a more substantial role in the fintech landscape. 

With growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies, fintech companies are exploring new ways to integrate blockchain technology into their operations, potentially reshaping the financial industry’s infrastructure.

3. Sustainable Finance

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations are increasingly important for investors. 

Fintech firms that can provide sustainable financial solutions and incorporate ESG principles into their offerings stand to gain a competitive edge.

According to a recent Morningstar report, the realm of ESG investing has surpassed $2.5 trillion, marking a notable 12 percent surge from 2021 and is predicted to continue growing in 2024.

4. Open Banking Expansion

Open banking initiatives continue to gain traction, enabling greater data sharing and collaboration between financial institutions and fintech companies.

CEOs should monitor these developments and consider how their organizations can leverage open banking for innovation and growth.

Challenges Companies Will Face in 2024

1. Regulatory Uncertainty

The regulatory landscape for fintech remains dynamic, with governments worldwide introducing new regulations to address the industry’s rapid growth. Companies must stay aware of these changes and adapt their strategies and compliance measures accordingly.

2. Cybersecurity Risk

With the increasing reliance on digital solutions, cybersecurity threats continue to evolve. Fintech firms must invest in robust security measures and stay vigilant against cyberattacks, which can have severe consequences for both reputation and finances.

Advanced solutions such as tokenization and biometric authentication effectively address these concerns. Features like digital wallets, wallet push provisioning, and card controls enhance security by eliminating the need for sharing physical banking information.

3. Talent Shortages

As the demand for fintech talent remains high, companies may face challenges in recruiting and retaining top talent. Developing comprehensive talent acquisition and retention strategies will be crucial for staying competitive.

Opportunities on the Horizon

1. Strategic Acquisitions

Decreasing valuations in some fintech sectors open doors for strategic acquisitions. 

Traditional financial institutions are eyeing fintech startups that have weathered the changes and can offer innovative solutions. Companies should consider their organization’s position in this acquisition landscape.

2. Market Resilience

Just as HR and payroll-focused fintech firms have seen steady valuations, companies can identify resilient, growing sectors within fintech and position their companies to thrive. 

Fintech firms in Q1 2022 peaked at a whopping $600.0 million, but saw a decline to $90.0 million by Q1 2023. This suggests a significant shift in investor sentiment, with an increased focus on profitability over growth, and a potentially challenging fundraising environment for growth-stage startups.

By aligning with market trends and focusing on business efficiency, companies can increase the likelihood of success in 2024.

3. The Shift in Hybrid Work Models

The traditional notions of work and office dynamics are undergoing a transformative shift. The rise of hybrid work models, incorporating both remote and in-office work, became the norm rather than the exception after the pandemic.

However, as we approach the new year an impressive 90% of businesses intend to introduce return-to-office guidelines by the conclusion of 2024, as indicated by a report from Resume Builder in August 2023. The survey, which involved 1,000 corporate leaders, revealed this widespread trend.

By aligning recruiting strategies with the principles of flexibility, technology adoption, employee well-being, clear communication, and professional development, fintech companies can not only attract top talent but also build resilient and high-performing teams in the evolving landscape of candidates returning from remote work.

Building the Right Team

Building a team that can adapt to a changing market and achieve sustainable growth is a CEO’s priority.

This upcoming new year promises to be a year of both challenges and opportunities in the fintech industry. CEOs who proactively address regulatory changes, invest in cybersecurity, seize acquisition opportunities, and focus on market trends and efficient operations will be better positioned to succeed. 

In a dynamic environment, having the right talent is crucial. Finiti Search specializes in recruiting top fintech sales talent, ensuring a perfect match between preferences, personalities, and job specifications.

At Finiti, we understand the unique talent needs of the fintech sector and are here to assist you in building the team that will drive your organization’s success. To discuss your sales leadership recruitment or chat about shaping your Sales division, reach out to the Finiti Search team.

5 resolutions to help grow your sales team in 2024

| 5 minutes

Forget going to the gym more often or cutting down on the chocolate biscuits. We’ve been talking to some of our clients about how they’re approaching Fintech sales recruitment in the new year and the changes they want to make. 

Here are our top resolutions Chief Revenue Officers need to put in place to make sure they’re securing top sales talent in 2024.

1. Have a clear budget (and some contingency) 

Budgets are stretched at the moment, but with candidates entering more recruitment processes than ever before, you don’t want to miss out on a top sales performer because of a relatively small amount of money. 

Extending the recruitment process or hiring an underperformer will almost certainly cost more — as much as three times their salary according to the Recruitment & Employment Confederation

If there’s no wiggle room on base salary, really think about what you could offer around equity, commission structure, health and wellbeing and short-term guarantees. 

Clear, compelling incentives not only set you aside from the competition but will make sure your new hire is motivated from the moment they start. 

2. Plan out the recruitment timeline and process

A candidate-rich market has given some companies a false sense of security. 

We’ve seen CROs take their time with the final stages of recruitment only to miss out on their frontrunner because they’ve been snapped up by a competitor. 

Before going live with your recruitment, have the full process and timeline mapped out. Make sure you, and any other decision makers, have key dates in your diary — in pen. 

Having that clear plan will help maintain momentum, avoiding the stop-start stalling that risks candidates losing patience and losing interest. 

3. Ignore resolution number 2

As important as the process is, you sometimes need to be opportunistic when it comes to hiring top sales talent. 

If you’re confident you’ve found a great fit and you’ve covered everything you wanted to… end the recruitment process and make them an offer. A strong offer. 

It shows the candidate how serious you are and how good a fit you think they’ll be for your team, helping you get ahead of other offers and avoid missing out.

It’s also more respectful to other candidates in the process; they may not have been your top choice this time, but if they’re strong enough to be on your shortlist, you want to leave them with a positive impression of your company as an employer. 

4. Apply your sales mindset to the recruitment process 

Before thinking about the job description or where to advertise, make sure you’re clear on the selling points for your company and the role. 

Try to go beyond generic perks or statements everyone’s heard before about growth and being ambitious — be specific. 

Just as you think through what you want from a candidate for the job spec, have a clear list of what your Sales Team and business offers candidates that you can weave into your comms throughout the recruitment process. 

5. Find the right partner

Making a successful hire relies on having the best, most relevant candidates in the recruitment process from day one. 

Rather than hoping your dream candidate just happens to stumble across your ad amongst the 58 million other companies posting on LinkedIn, working with the right recruitment partner can make the process quicker and more successful. 

Industry expertise is critical. The right recruitment partner will be able not only to identify the best-fit candidates but to sell your opportunity to them based on their knowledge of the candidate, the business, and the industry. 

It’s something we do a lot with our Fintech talent network. Very often we’re able to draw passive candidates who weren’t job hunting into the recruitment process by matchmaking their strengths and motivations with the hiring company. 

For help finding your perfect fintech sales hire and making these 2024 resolutions a reality, get in touch with the Finiti team to tell us more about your vacancy, your business, and your dream candidate.

12 days of Rising Fintech Stars

| 5 minutes

Leave the French hens, turtle doves and partridge to someone else. 

For our Christmas countdown, we’re looking at 12 of the rising Fintech stars that have made waves in 2023 and look set to continue their meteoric rise in the new year. 

  1. Fiserv

A global fintech and payments company, Fiserv offers solutions for banking, global commerce, merchant acquiring, billing and payments, and point-of-sale. With revenues at $17.7 billion (2022), they are set to do big things in 2024.

  1. Prism Data

A big-data- and AI-powered crystal ball for banks and financial institutions, Prism Data helps them make more informed decisions and mitigate risks. Products like CashScore aim to predict default risk and problematic customers ahead of time. With 2023’s focus on regulation and compliance set to continue, Prism could be ones to watch in 2024. 

  1. FERO Payment Science

By combining automation, machine learning, and alternative data sources, FERO provides faster and more accessible credit solutions to individuals and small businesses. Their focus on financial inclusion and using technology to expand lending opportunities sets them apart and saw them win over Coatue, Volta Ventures, and Antler in their seed funding round to take home $3m

  1. Flanks

This wealth tech app enables clients to get one single view of their investment portfolio in real time. Integrating with more than 300 banks, it provides an aggregated view even across different providers and products. Securing $8 million in Series A funding, they have big growth plans for 2024 with a focus on automating manual wealth management processes. Watch this space. 

  1. Carefull

The global elderly care market is already worth $1,100 billion and set to rise to $1,800 billion by 2030; Carefull is making waves in the fintech industry with its unique solution for elder care and financial management. The platform enables caregivers and family members to monitor and protect the financial well-being of aging loved ones, helping to prevent fraud and financial exploitation. The potential is huge, and investors agree: Carefull secured $16.5 million in Series A funding earlier this year. 

  1. Brite

This boot-strapped Swedish startup is on a mission to make account-to-account payments faster. Their proprietary network enables merchants to receive funds 24/7 and settle them in any currency. They’ve already reached profitability and expanded to 25 countries, and their latest $60 million funding raise will help them continue that rapid expansion into 2024. 

  1. Stitch

South-African company Stitch has been gaining recognition in the Fintech world for its novel approach to digital wallets and payments. Their platform integrates various financial services, from banking to budgeting, in a single, user-friendly app. This simplifies and streamlines the user experience, appealing to consumers looking for an all-in-one financial solution. With $25 million in Series A funding in their pocket and plans for a spin-out brand, they’re ones to watch in 2024 and beyond. 

  1. Albo

Neobanks aren’t new, but what sets Albo apart is its focus on financial inclusion and providing accessible banking services to underserved populations in Latin America. The company offers a mobile banking platform with features like budgeting tools, savings accounts, and debit cards, making it easier for people without traditional bank accounts to manage their finances. On track to hit profitability in 2024, they gained $40 million in Series C funding earlier this year to help them with their mission.

  1. Apron

The brainchild of a former Revolut and Square product lead, Apron minimises the amount of time small businesses spend processing invoices. The fact that it’s not looking to take on market leaders in this space, but to integrate them into a more effective workflow contributed to its $15 million Series A funding and a bright future next year. 

  1. Globacap

Fresh from a $21 million Series B funding round, Globacap is all about digitising and automating the private capital markets. It focuses on streamlining processes, increasing liquidity, and generally improving access to help private capital markets reach their potential. Their white-label service now powers 15 global institutions, and their quiet rise looks set to continue. 

  1. PaymentWorks

RegTech has been a booming area in 2023 and PaymentWorks are making a name for themselves in digital supplier onboarding and payment compliance. The platform helps organizations securely onboard and verify supplier information, reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions. A growing need in the corporate sector, they’re now connected to eight of the largest US commercial banks with 25,000 vendors joining per month – a strong foundation for 2024. 

  1. Quantexa

For any company operating in more than one market, compliance quickly becomes complicated. Focused on banking, insurance, and government organisations, Quantexa uses advanced data analytics to help businesses navigate different regulatory compliance domains. Growing 124% over the past 5 years, they’re ones to watch in the new year. 

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