FinTech's DEI Discussions – Powered by Harrington Starr
Nadia Edwards-Dashti 643 episodes Nov 10, 2026
FinTech's DEI Discussions, hosted by Nadia Edwards-Dashti, explores how financial technology can lead diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Each episode offers actionable advice for creating more equitable workplaces, from recruitment and retention to talent investment and career progression. Through series specials and conversations, the podcast examines different experiences and advocates for meaningful change in the FinTech sector.
Episodes
The Most Talented Person Might Be the Quietest | Paige Phúc, Director of Data Engineering & BI at PingPong Payment
What if the most talented person in your team is also the quietest?In Financial Technology, recognising talent goes beyond technical ability, confidence and visibility. But are we creating workplaces where everyone has a genuine opportunity to contribute, develop and succeed?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, host Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Paige Phúc, Director of Data Engin
What Does 'Human in the Loop' Actually Mean? | FinTech Connect 2026 Preview with Ronel David
What does ‘human in the loop’ actually mean when AI is making decisions in financial services? And how can businesses ensure that people have the authority, knowledge and opportunity to influence the technology transforming their industry?In this special pre-conference episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Ronel David, Banking and FinTech Board Member, Non-Executi
Is Digital Banking Doing Enough for Financial Inclusion? | FinTech Connect 2026 with Soren Rode Jain Andreasen
Financial inclusion is about more than having access to a bank account. As banking becomes increasingly digital, how can financial institutions ensure people have the knowledge, tools and confidence to manage their money effectively?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti, Co-Founder and Chief Customer Officer at Harrington Starr, is joined by Soren Rode Jain Andrea
Why Diversity is Critical to Fighting Financial Crime | FinTech Connect 2026 with Natalia Gburzyńska from Revolut
Is your financial crime team missing the warning signs?As financial crime becomes increasingly sophisticated, diverse perspectives, inclusive leadership and psychological safety are becoming essential to building effective compliance teams.In this special pre-conference episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti, is joined by Natalia Gburzyńska, Deputy Money Laundering Reporti
Is it Time to Scrap CVs? | FinTech Connect 2026 Preview with Joe Wilson, Chief Evangelist at bunq
Are traditional CVs holding businesses back from recognising talent and potential?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti, Co-Founder and Chief Customer Officer at Harrington Starr, is joined by Joe Wilson, Chief Evangelist at bunq, to explore why it's time to rethink recruitment, career development and inclusion in Financial Technology.Joe shares how bunq chal
The Hidden Barriers for Women in Finance | Leena Khalil, Managing Partner at Key Capital and Co-Founder of Mumzworld
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, host Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Leena Khalil, Managing Partner at Key Capital and Co-Founder of Mumzworld, to explore entrepreneurship, investment and the importance of building inclusive networks in Financial Technology.Drawing on her experience in investment banking, founding and scaling businesses, and supporting entrepreneurs, Leena sha
Why FinTech Must Rethink Hiring | FinTech Connect 2026 Preview with Wincie Wong, Founding Member of Tech She Can
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, host Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Wincie Wong, Founding Member of Tech She Can and Advisory Board Member for FinTech Connect, to explore why businesses need to rethink their approach to hiring, reskilling and workforce transformation.Drawing on her experience leading digital transformation in financial services, Wincie shares how she helped r
Inclusion is Not Charity | Arunjay Katakam, Author, Founder of Inclusive Action Lab and Co-Founder of ThriveNow Education
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, host Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Arunjay Katakam, Author, Founder of Inclusive Action Lab and Co-Founder of ThriveNow Education, to explore why diversity of thought is a competitive advantage and how financial services can move beyond traditional approaches to inclusion.Arunjay shares his journey from investment banking to financial inclusio
Stop Hiring the Same People | Vanessa Neal, Head of Product Compliance at Elavon Europe
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Vanessa Neal, Head of Product Compliance at Elavon Europe, to explore why businesses need to look beyond traditional career paths and recognise the value of transferable skills, curiosity and different perspectives.Vanessa shares her own unconventional journey into banking and discusses why previous industry experience shouldn’t alwa
Who's Missing From the Room? | Elitsa Angelova, Chief of Staff at Mouro Capital
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Elitsa Angelova, Chief of Staff at Mouro Capital, to explore why diversity of thought can lead to stronger teams, better decisions and new opportunities.Elitsa shares lessons from her career across consulting, innovation and venture capital, discussing why confidence shouldn’t be mistaken for capability, why businesses should hi
Why Aren’t Women Investing? | Rosie Gill, MD at Manor House Financial Services Ltd & Founder of Let’s Grow Girls
Why does talking about money still feel so uncomfortable?On this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Rosie Gill, Managing Director at Manor House Financial Services Ltd and Founder of Let’s Grow Girls, to explore financial education, female empowerment and why more needs to be done to give women confidence when it comes to their money.Rosie shares the story behind Let’s Grow G
Why the Best Workplaces Never Stop Learning | Carine Cohuet, Head of HR at Covantis
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Carine Cohuet, Head of HR at Covantis, to explore the people strategy behind a fast-moving technology business.Carine shares why continuous learning is essential for both individual development and business success, how Covantis gives employees greater ownership of their growth, and why standing still in an age of
Recognising and Challenging Workplace Bias | Shannon Nutter, board member, financial services executive, and co-author of Walking on Broken Glass.
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Shannon Nutter, board member, financial services executive and co-author of Walking on Broken Glass, for a powerful conversation about the realities women continue to face in the workplace.Shannon explores the bias and double standards that can shape women’s careers, from being labelled as “too much” or “too little” to workplace “tak
Why Every Voice at Work Matters | Lisa Loud, Head of Product at Ubuntu Tribe
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Lisa Loud, Head of Product at Ubuntu Tribe, to explore why listening, belonging and meaningful contribution are so important to genuine inclusion.Lisa shares her journey across technology and blockchain, the challenges she has faced throughout her career, and why creating workplaces where every voice is heard matters. The conversatio
Why Psychological Safety Is Essential for Innovation | Michelle Wright, FinTech Chief Product Officer
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Michelle Wright, FinTech Chief Product Officer, to explore the intersection of product, commercial thinking and inclusion.Michelle shares her experience of being the different voice in the room, why women can struggle to communicate their own value, and how she has reframed self-promotion around demonstrating expertise rather than si
Can FinTech Open the Global Economy to Everyone? | Fereshteh Forough, Founder and Executive Director of Code to Inspire
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Fereshteh Forough, Founder and Executive Director of Code to Inspire, to explore what inclusion really means when access to education, technology and financial systems is not guaranteed.Fereshteh shares her journey from growing up as an Afghan refugee to founding Afghanistan’s first coding school for girls and women, and discusses ho
The Leadership Blind Spot Holding Back Great Talent | Christina Di Nolfo, CEO of Collection Pot
What does it really take to build an inclusive workplace where different perspectives are heard, potential is recognised, and people feel safe enough to challenge the status quo?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Christina Di Nolfo, CEO of Collection Pot, to explore why diversity should be viewed as a commercial advantage, not simply a moral obligation.Christina
The Hidden Career Currency That Shapes Who Gets Ahead in Financial Services | Janet Pope, DCMS Audit & Risk Chair. Chair CAF Bank. RemCo Chair, Environment & Social Purpose Chair at Yorkshire Building Society
What does it really take to turn inclusion from good intentions into meaningful change?In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Janet Pope, DCMS Audit & Risk Chair, Chair of CAF Bank, RemCo Chair and Environment & Social Purpose Chair at Yorkshire Building Society, and StepChange Trustee.Drawing on her extensive leadership career, Janet explores why c
How Do You Scale Without Losing Your Culture? | Emma Hagan, UK Chief Executive Officer at ClearBank
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Emma Hagen, UK CEO of ClearBank, to explore inclusive leadership, workplace culture and the human side of growth.Emma shares how ClearBank has approached scaling while protecting its values, why belonging matters, and how everyday decisions can shape a more inclusive workplace.From supporting people to thrive to keeping culture at th
EWPN The New Frontier: Human Centric AI in the Future of Finance and Payments | Melanie Ockerse, Ruta Kairyte and Nilixa Devlukia
Artificial intelligence is transforming finance and payments at an extraordinary pace, but how do we make sure innovation never comes at the expense of people?Recorded live at Money20/20 2026, this special episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions sees Nadia joined by Melanie Ockerse, VP Customer Success at Entersekt, Ruta Kairyte, Commercial Director at Tribe Payments, and Nilixa Devlukia, CEO of
Why Smart Data Needs a Human Purpose | Heather Xiao, Founder and Lead at Horizon Zero Ltd
In the latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti sits down with Heather Xiao, Founder and Lead at Horizon Zero Ltd, to explore why the future of AI, smart data and open banking depends on putting people first.Heather shares her journey from banking and consulting to founding Horizon Zero, and explains why the biggest challenge facing financial services isn't the t
Building a More Resilient Future for Payments | Sumaiyah Ali Qadri, Founder at Zentra
What does the future of payments look like, and who is building it?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti sits down with Sumaiyah Ali Qadri, Founder of Zentra, to discuss payment resilience, intelligent infrastructure and the future of financial services.Drawing on leadership experience at Amazon, Monzo and Barclays, Sumaiyah shares the inspiration behind Zentra, t
Human Centric Leadership: The Superpower AI Cannot Replace | Leila Foulon, Gaya Ananda, Violas Xiao
Can AI improve how we work without losing what makes great leadership human?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Leila Foulon, Gaya Ananda and Violas Xiao for a thought-provoking conversation on the leadership qualities that technology cannot replicate. Recorded live, the discussion explores why empathy, curiosity, trust and psychological safety are becoming even m
The Hidden Cost of Inequality in Financial Services | Rosie Crowley and Rajni Rughwani from Smart Pension
What does it really mean to build a fair workplace?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Rosie Crowley, Director of Transformation, and Rajni Rughwani, Lead Data Analyst at Smart Pension, for a powerful conversation on inclusion, equality and the long-term impact of workplace decisions.Together, they explore the realities of the gender pension gap, why "fair do
The Future of FinTech Hiring Is Still Human | Nadia at Money 20/20 Speaking with FinTech Garden
What does the future of fintech hiring look like in an AI-driven world?Recorded live at Money20/20, Nadia Edwards-Dashti, joins Igor to discuss how the FinTech talent market has evolved, the impact of AI on recruitment, and why keeping hiring human-centric has never been more important.From the shift in market conditions since the hiring boom of 2021 and 2022 to the growing challenges around talen
The Talent Hidden in Plain Sight | Cia Kouparitsas, CEO at Greenbeam
How can organisations unlock the talent they already have while building more inclusive, future-ready workplaces?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Cia Kouparitsas, CEO at Greenbeam, to explore the power of skills-based hiring, workforce capability data, and why human potential should never be underestimated.From hidden talent and transferable skil
How Inclusive Innovation Creates Better FinTech Businesses | Joel Blake, Founder and CEO of GFA Exchange
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti sits down with Joel Blake OBE, Founder and CEO of GFA Exchange, to explore why inclusion should be viewed as a competitive advantage, not just a moral imperative.From access to finance and inclusive innovation to governance, risk, and resilience, Joel shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey and explains how organisati
The Power of Purpose in Financial Services | Stacy Litke, VP, Banking Programs at Green Check Verified
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Stacy Litke, VP, Banking Programs at Green Check Verified, for a powerful conversation about purpose, financial inclusion, leadership and creating opportunities for others.Stacy shares her unique career journey through banking, technology and the rapidly evolving cannabis finance sector, explaining how Green Check
The 100-Year Life Is Reshaping Financial Services | Helene Panzarino, experienced FinTech relationship professional, former banker, investment readiness consultant, and business advisor
What happens when people start living to 100, but financial services is still designed for a much shorter life?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Helene Panzarino, experienced FinTech relationship professional, former banker, investment readiness consultant, and business advisor, to explore one of the biggest demographic shifts facing the industry.
How to Pivot Your Career and Thrive in FinTech | Joanna Akers-Khan, Senior Director, Global Regional Marketing at Feedzai
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Joanna Akers-Khan, Senior Director, Global Regional Marketing at Feedzai, to explore the power of career pivots, inclusive leadership, and creating meaningful change in financial technology.Jo shares her journey from a small town in Australia to a global leadership role in FinTech, reflecting on how curiosity, transfer
Building the Human Infrastructure Behind FinTech | Srishti Jain Andreasen, Global Executive for Business Development at RS Software and Country Ambassador for Denmark for EWPN
What does it take to build both the technology infrastructure and the human infrastructure that power modern FinTech?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Srishti Jain-Andreasen, Global Executive for Business Development at RS Software and Country Ambassador for Denmark at EWPN. Together, they explore a career that has spanned cybersecurity, global pa
Why Inclusion Requires Action, Not Intentions | Kelly Waller, Global VP Field Marketing at Quadient
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, recorded live at Fin.Tech Marketing Conference 2026, Nadia Edwards-Dashti sits down with Kelly Waller, Global VP Field Marketing at Quadient, to explore the role leaders and organisations must play in creating truly inclusive workplaces.Drawing on her experience leading teams across both FinTech and MarTech, Kelly shares why developing people has
Question Time: Fin.Tech Marketing Conference 2026
Recorded live at the Fin.Tech Marketing Conference 2026, this special episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions brings together some of the brightest minds in financial services, technology and marketing to explore the future of inclusion, innovation and leadership in FinTech.Hosted by Nadia Edwards-Dashti, Chief Customer Officer at Harrington Starr, this episode features insights from Conrad Ford
WEmF - Women in the Workplace Talk | Nadia Edwards-Dashti
In this special episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti shares her contributions from the Westminster Business Forum webinar on Women in the Workplace, exploring the implications of the Employment Rights Act 2025 and what it means for women across financial services, fintech, and technology.Drawing on more than two decades of experience in recruitment, Nadia examines the st
Brand Is the New Revenue Engine | Felicitas Humphrey, Global Head of Marketing at ActiveViam
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 FinTech Marketing Can Drive Real Change | Emma Callaghan, Director of Marketing at KOR
What responsibility does marketing have in building a more inclusive FinTech industry?In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Emma Callaghan, Director of Marketing at KOR, recorded live at the Fin.Tech Marketing Conference 2026 in London.Emma shares her journey from journalism into FinTech marketing, while exploring how marketing teams can drive real change
Why Transferable Skills Are Reshaping FinTech Careers | Marie Weidlich, Open Banking
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Marie Weidlich from Open Banking to explore transferable skills, neurodiversity, leadership, innovation, and the future of financial services.From career pivots across fintech and investment management to advocating for inclusion and redefining leadership through impact, Marie shares an honest and thought-provoking perspective on w
Leadership That Reflects the Customers You Serve | John SamKubam, CEO for Africa at Crown Agents Bank
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, recorded live at Pay360 2026, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by John SamKubam, CEO for Africa at Crown Agents Bank, for a powerful conversation on leadership, representation and what real inclusion in financial services looks like.From moving to the UK from Cameroon to study law, to building a career across global banking institutions including JP Morg
Financial Inclusion in FinTech Goes Beyond Compliance | Sean Tyrer, CEO and Founder at the Money Carer Group of Companies
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Sean Tyrer, CEO and Founder of the Money Carer Group of Companies, to explore what financial inclusion really means in practice.From building Money Carer to supporting vulnerable individuals, Sean shares how simple, people-first thinking can transform financial services. The conversation covers inclusion beyond compliance, the import
Why Fair Pay and Progression in FinTech Are Still a Problem | Azy Shojaeian, Group Chief Compliance & Risk Officer & MLRO At Pockit & Monese
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Azy Shojaeian, Group Chief Compliance & Risk Officer & MLRO at Pockit & Monese, to explore what inclusion really looks like in FinTech leadership.Azy shares her journey into C-level roles, the reality of often being the only woman in the room, and why self-advocacy, resilience, and knowing your worth are critical for care
Why Flexible Policies Are Critical for FinTech Talent Retention | Jayde Tipper, Chief People Officer at Temenos
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Jayde Tipper, Chief People Officer at Temenos, for an honest conversation about what inclusion really looks like in today’s FinTech industry.From starting her career in recruitment to leading global people strategy, Jayde shares her journey and challenges the idea that career progression and family life are mutually ex
Why Fraud Is a Financial Inclusion Problem | Denise Johansson, CEO & Co-Founder at Enfuce Financial Services
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti speaks with Denise Johansson, CEO & Co-Founder of Enfuce, about the hidden impact of fraud in financial services.Drawing on new research, Denise explains why fraud isn’t just a financial issue, but a financial inclusion issue. While men and women experience fraud at similar rates, the emotional and long-term impact is often far
Compliance Careers in FinTech | Dane Pedro, Head of UK Compliance & MLRO at Mollie
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, recorded live at PAY360 2026, Nadia sits down with Dane Pedro, Head of UK Compliance & MLRO at Mollie, to unpack a journey defined by resilience, growth, and impact.From starting out as a debt advisor during a financial crisis to leading at a board level, Dane shares the realities behind career progression in financial service, being overlooked, na
Building Better FinTech Products Starts With Who You Hire | Macs Dickinson, Director of Engineering at LHV Bank
Recorded live at Pay360 2026, this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions sees Nadia Edwards-Dashti joined by Macs Dickinson, Director of Engineering at LHV Bank, for a conversation that challenges how the industry thinks about talent, inclusion, and what “good hiring” actually looks like in FinTech.From a non-traditional route into tech to leading international engineering teams, Macs shares why th
Why Have We Stopped Talking About Financial Inclusion | Pay360 2026 panel, moderated by Nadia Edwards-Dashti, Chief Customer Officer at Harrington Starr
At Pay360 in London, Nadia Edwards-Dashti hosts a panel that challenges a big assumption in financial services: if innovation is moving forward, why are so many still being left behind?Featuring Faith Reynolds, Nick Quin, and Malintha Fernando, this conversation cuts through the noise around financial inclusion and gets to the reality.From the millions quietly supporting others through everyday ba
Are We Designing Financial Systems for Everyone? | Sam Emery, FS Executive, NED and Advisor
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, host Nadia Edwards-Dashti sits down with Sam Emery, FS Executive, NED and Advisor, for a powerful conversation recorded live at PAY360 2026.With over two decades in payments, spanning leadership roles across the Financial Conduct Authority and Lloyds Banking Group, Sam brings a unique perspective on how inclusion, or the lack of it, is shaping the futu
It’s Not an Ambition Gap. It’s a System Gap. | Julia Babahina, Lead Tech Risk Management Specialist at Swift
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti sits down with Julia Babahina of SWIFT to challenge outdated thinking around ambition, performance, and inclusion.From non-linear career paths to returning from maternity leave, Julia shares honest insights on why trust, not pressure, drives performance, and why the real issue isn’t ambition, but systems, access, and opportunity.Fi
Diversity of Thought: The Real Driver of FinTech Performance | Melanie Mills, Commerical Director at PayCaptain
Careers aren’t always linear, and in this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Mel Mills proves exactly why that’s a strength, not a weakness.From fashion and retail to FinTech leadership, Mel shares how transferable skills, curiosity, and a growth mindset can unlock entirely new opportunities. She and Nadia explore the power of diversity of thought, why hiring for difference drives better perfor
Building a Career in Tech That Evolves with AI | Katherine Mora, Founder and Director of Amanzi IO
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia speaks with Katherine, a Tech and AI Strategist, about navigating careers in an AI-driven world.Katherine shares how she helps businesses cut through AI hype to make smarter technology decisions, and why combining your existing expertise with AI is now essential to staying relevant. The conversation also explores the power of networking as a true
The Power of Transferable Skills in FinTech Careers | Sophia Furber, Fintech Research Analyst, EMEA at S&P Global
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Sophia Furber, FinTech Research Analyst (EMEA) at S&P Global, to explore the realities of building a career in financial technology, and why the path isn’t always linear.Sophia shares her journey from financial journalism into FinTech research, proving that there is no single route into the industry. From navigating imposter sy
The Job Search Is Broken. Here’s What Actually Works in FinTech. | Ingrid Sierra, Brand & Marketing Director at Zego
What does it really take to navigate today’s FinTech job market, and how can we build more inclusive, high-performing teams along the way?In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Ingrid Sierra, Brand & Marketing Director at Zego, to explore how hiring, career growth, and inclusion are evolving across financial technology.With over 20 years of experience across marketing
Why Your Getting Hiring Wrong in FinTech | Julie Sutton, Head of Growth, Europe at Paymentology
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti speaks with Julie Sutton, Head of Growth, Europe at Paymentology, about how transferable skills can unlock overlooked talent in financial technology.Julie shares her non-linear career journey and explains why hiring based on rigid experience is limiting access to high-potential candidates. From communication and curiosity to owners
Why Career Pivots Supercharge Growth in FinTech | Kristi Tange, Group CRO at ClearToken
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
Building Resilient Careers in Financial Technology | Ronel David, Non Executive Director, Advisory Board Member and Fintech Mentor
What does career security really look like in FinTech today?In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Ronel David, Non-Executive Director, Advisory Board Member and FinTech mentor, to challenge the traditional idea of careers in financial services.From building a portfolio career to redefining success beyond job titles, Ronel shares powerful insights on career resilience, th
The Hiring Move FinTechs Need to Make | Rachael Grieve, Global Head of Learning and Development for Technology at Nomura
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
You Can’t Build Inclusive Teams If You’re Not Hearing Them | Derren Powell, Business Development in Payments
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Derren Powell, Business Development in Payments, to explore what real inclusion looks like in today’s FinTech landscape.From the importance of listening to the role of kindness, culture, and optionality at work, Derren shares honest insights on how leaders can create environments where people feel safe, heard, and able to perform at
Why the Future of FinTech Still Starts With People | Krishna Nadella, Head of US Sales, Financial Services at ITRS
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Krishna Nadella, Head of US Sales, Financial Services at ITRS.Together, they explore how AI is reshaping financial technology, from real-world efficiency gains to the evolving relationship between human capital and intelligent systems. Krishna introduces the concept of agentic capital and explains why the future of fin
The Changing Face of Leadership in Financial Technology | Fiona Facey, Technology Business Manager at Scotiabank
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia Edwards-Dashti is joined by Fiona Facey, Technology Business Manager at Scotiabank, for a conversation about leadership, career development, and the evolving culture of financial technology.Fiona shares insights from her journey in technology and financial services, reflecting on how leadership in fintech is changing and why diverse perspectives
Leadership That Opens Doors | Harrington Starr's IWD Event 2026 | Hosted by Nadia Edwards-Dashti and Georgia Richardson
In this special episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, we bring you the full recording of Harrington Starr’s International Women’s Day 2026 event, Leadership That Opens Doors.Hosted by Nadia Edwards-Dashti and Georgia Richardson, the event brings together leaders from across FinTech, technology, and financial services to share insights on confidence, sponsorship, leadership, and career progres
Your FinTech Career Doesn’t Have to Be Linear | David Germain — career technologist, industry judge, and now an independent Non-Executive Director
In the latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia speaks with David Germain, career technologist, industry judge, and now an independent Non-Executive Director working across multiple sectors.From starting as a software developer to leading major technology programmes and now advising organisations at board level, David shares why careers don’t have to be linear, and why real inclusio
Inclusive Leadership in FinTech: Why Promoting Sameness Blocks Innovation | Silvia Colandrea | Senior Implementation Manager - UK and Ireland at Visa
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
Visibility is Power in FinTech | Victoria Vaughan, Founder of B612
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Victoria Vaughan, Founder of B612, for a conversation on visibility, inclusion and what it really takes to scale influence in FinTech and digital assets.Victoria shares her journey from leading CoinTelegraph’s global growth to building her own PR agency without external funding, unpacking the power of positioning, partnerships a
Shaping the Future of Web3 Leadership | Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget
In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Grace Chen, CEO of Bitget, to explore leadership, resilience, and what inclusion really looks like in Web3.From discovering Bitcoin at $300 after reading the white paper, to becoming CEO of a global crypto exchange, Gracy shares the journey that shaped her perspective on decentralisation, trust, and gender equity in tech.She speaks
Career Break ≠ Career Over | Kicki Frisch, Software Engineering Manager at T. Rowe Price
Career break? Imposter syndrome? Non-linear path into FinTech?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia speaks with Kicki Frisch, Senior Software Engineering Manager at T. Rowe Price, about forced career breaks, transferable skills, and why inclusive hiring in financial technology means looking beyond the “perfect” CV.A powerful conversation on returning to work, leadership in tech,
Talent Is Everywhere. Opportunity Is Not. | Konstantina Kapetanidi, VP, Global Data Solutions & Head of Data Science, Europe (VCA) at Visa
What does inclusion actually look like inside one of the world’s biggest payments organisations?In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Konstantina Kapetanidi, VP, Global Data Solutions & Head of Data Science, Europe (VCA) at Visa, to unpack what it really means to build belonging at scale.From her journey through financial services to leading data science in payment
Helping People Win at Work | Neetu Kumar, Head of Graduate Programmes at Centrica
What does inclusive leadership actually look like in practice?In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, host Nadia speaks with Neetu Kumar, Head of Graduate Programmes at Centrica, about her 23-year journey through talent, technology, and inclusion, and why her core leadership philosophy is simple: help people win.They explore inclusive hiring beyond policy, the danger of “culture fit”, the po
IWD Event Special | Matt Smith from Steeleye, Lynda Clarke from Nayax, Claire Court from Delta Financial Systems
Leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about access, opportunity, and the doors we choose to open for others.In this International Women’s Day 2026 Special, we’re joined by our event sponsors as we explore this year’s theme, Leadership That Opens Doors. Together, we unpack what inclusive leadership really looks like in practice, why International Women’s Day matters to all genders, and how everyday
Net-Caring Over Networking | Ratul Ahmed, Group Head Model Risk Management & Validation at Commerzbank AG
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
Why FinTech Needs Curiosity More Than Credentials | Alexandra Sheller, Advsior and Principal Consultant at The Bridgeview Group Ltd
Careers in FinTech aren't linear.So why do we still hire like they are?In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Alexandra Sheller, Advisor and Principal Consultant at The Bridgeview Group Ltd, recorded live at FinTech Connect 2025.They explore what inclusion really looks like when markets shift, careers zig-zag, and talent doesn’t fit a traditional CV. From skills
Why Inclusive Leadership Is a Competitive Advantage for Banks and FinTechs | Gary O'Brien, BNP Paribas
In this latest episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Gary O'Brien, Global Head of Banks and Broker Segment Strategy at BNP Paribas, joins Nadia live from FinTech Connect 2025 for a candid conversation on inclusive leadership in financial services.Together, they explore why inclusion isn’t a “nice to have,” but a real competitive advantage for banks and FinTechs, how diverse teams drive s
When People Feel Safe, Performance Follows | Hana Rolles, Chief Commercial Officer at Bank of London
In this episode, Nadia is joined by Hana Rolles, Chief Commercial Officer at Bank of London, for an honest and insightful conversation on what real inclusion looks like inside modern financial services.From Hana’s journey as an engineer to senior commercial leadership, to building cultures where people feel safe, confident, and able to perform at their best, this episode goes beyond DEI theory and
Can Open Banking Reduce Bias in Financial Services? | Adam Betteridge, Fintech, Partnerships & Open Banking Lead at TSB Bank
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Adam Betteridge, FinTech, Partnerships & Open Banking Lead at TSB Bank, recorded live at FinTech Connect 2025. Together, they explore how open banking can reduce bias in financial services, why inclusion is never one-size-fits-all, and what genuine allyship looks like inside banks and FinTechs today. Adam shares his personal
The DEI Shift FinTech Still Needs to Make | Wasim Mushtaq, Founder of 1CG
On this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, recorded live at FinTech Connect 2025, Nadia is joined by Wasim Mushtaq, Founder of 1CG, for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about what real allyship looks like in practice.From sponsorship vs mentorship, to why inclusion happens behind closed doors, not just on panels, Wasim shares lived experiences, hard truths, and practical actions l
Opening Doors in FinTech Isn’t Optional | Saeed Rafay, Innovation & Digital Transformation Leader at ABN AMRO Bank
Recorded live at FinTech Connect 2025, this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions sees Nadia in conversation with Saeed Rafay, Innovation & Digital Transformation Leader at ABN AMRO Bank.Saeed shares his personal journey into technology, why access and opportunity matter more than ever in FinTech, and how real innovation depends on who is invited into the conversation. From underprivileged
How 10x Banking Builds Inclusion From the Inside Out | Amanda Jenkins, Chief Impact Officer at 10x Banking
On this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Amanda Jenkins, Chief Impact Officer at 10x Banking, the leading UK FinTech – providing core banking technology ready for 2040, today Amanda joins us for a powerful conversation on creating workplaces where people feel safe, supported, and inspired.From psychological safety to grassroots inclusion, Amanda shares how 10x Banking emb
What FinTech Gets Wrong About Inclusion | Dajana Nozic, Co-Founder and COO at Nya
What happens when inclusion becomes a tick-box exercise — and who really pays the price?In this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Dajana Nozic, Co-Founder and COO at Nya, for a candid conversation about leadership, diversity of thought, and why listening is one of the most overlooked skills in FinTech today. Drawing on her journey from criminal law into FinTech leadership,
What Makes People Stay? Culture, Safety, and Allyship | Lyndsey Higgins, Senior Vice President – Head of Learning & Development and Business Services at Rimes Technologies
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Lyndsey Higgins, Senior Vice President – Head of Learning & Development and Business Services at Rimes Technologies, to explore how authentic inclusion transforms careers, retains talent, and drives performance.From embedding ESG into culture, to building environments where every voice is valued, Lyndsey shares how she “wa
Power in Connection: Women and Building Networks in Tech | Vanessa Vallely, OBE - CEO & Founder of WeAreTheCity and WeAreTechWomen
On the final #TurntoTech episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia is joined by Vanessa Vallely, OBE - CEO & Founder of WeAreTheCity and WeAreTechWomen, for a powerful conversation on the role of connection, community, and confidence in helping more women pivot into digital careers.From building networks that accelerate opportunity to creating safe spaces for women in tech, Vanessa shares de
Mental Wealth: Wellbeing at the Heart of Career Pivots | Kate Thompson, Board Member of the Women Pivoting to Digital Task Force
On this #TurntoTech episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Kate Thompson, Board Member of the Women Pivoting to Digital Task Force, to explore the power of mental wealth, happiness at work, and why well-being must sit at the heart of every career pivot.Kate shares a brilliant mix of science, lived experience and real-world leadership insight, from her behavioural science backgr
Digital Colonialism, AI & Inclusion: Why Ethical Tech Can't Wait | John Archbold, a professional overthinker for AI ethics, governance and the intersection of technology operations
On this episode of FinTech’s DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with John Archbold, a professional overthinker for AI ethics, governance and the intersection of technology operations. This conversation dives into digital colonialism, the unseen labour behind AI, hiring bias, and how algorithms are quietly removing humanity from decision-making. John challenges leaders to rethink responsible leadersh
