Welcome to The DEI Discussions, powered by Harrington Starr. In this podcast we discuss the development and entrenchment of diversity and inclusion in FinTech by speaking to the most prevalent voices within the space. Highlighting the incredible women walking the talk for change; the people working to champion authentic inclusion, both professionally and personally; discussing the talent acquisition strategies that attract and retain a diverse range of talent; and the Maternity and Paternity Stories of FinTech- each giving us an eye-opening look at the change we need to enact!
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, the realities of fundraising as a solo founder, and why empathy, sponsorship and inclusive leadership are essential to building stronger FinTech businesses.A thought-provoking conversation on payments, innovation, leadership and creating a more resilient financial ecosystem.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
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 more valuable as AI transforms financial services.The panel shares practical insights on developing future leaders, creating inclusive workplaces where every voice is heard, building diverse teams that drive better decision-making, and why succession planning, sponsorship and recognising individual strengths are critical for long-term success.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
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 doesn't always mean equal", the role employers play in creating more inclusive workplaces, and how mentorship, representation and education can shape better outcomes for everyone. They also discuss the opportunities and risks AI presents for diversity and inclusion, and why organisations must take conscious steps to ensure technology supports fairness rather than reinforces bias.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
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 talent retention, candidate experience, and developing the next generation of industry leaders, this conversation explores the realities facing employers and professionals across financial technology today.Nadia also shares her concerns around the industry's approach to junior talent, the long-term consequences of prioritising short-term efficiency, and why transferable skills, diversity of thought, and continuous learning will be critical to the future of work.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 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 skills to AI, leadership, and gender equity, Cia shares practical insights on how organisations can make better people decisions and create opportunities for individuals to thrive.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 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 organisations can embed inclusion into every aspect of their business to drive growth, strengthen decision-making, and create lasting impact.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 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 Verified is helping financial institutions provide compliant banking services to an industry that has historically been excluded from traditional financial services. She discusses why purpose became the driving force behind her career and how she found an organisation where her experience could create a meaningful impact.The conversation also explores Stacy's personal experiences as a woman working in banking and technology, from facing discrimination early in her career to becoming a leader committed to mentoring, championing and promoting other women. She reflects on the importance of succession planning, recognising talent, sharing credit, and building environments where people can thrive.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
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.From pensions and investing to mortgages, credit scoring, and financial inclusion, Helene explains why many financial products are no longer aligned with the realities of modern life, and where the biggest opportunities for innovation lie.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 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, transferable skills, and a willingness to embrace new challenges led her into the world of fraud and financial crime prevention. She discusses why fraud prevention has become one of the most important sectors in financial services, the human impact of financial crime, and how technology is helping protect consumers around the world.The conversation also dives into what inclusion really means in practice. From leading Women in Tech initiatives and employee resource groups to championing opportunities for others, Jo explains why inclusion is not about grand gestures but the small, consistent actions that create a ripple effect across organisations.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
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 payments, open banking and international business development across Asia, Europe and North America.Srishti shares her experiences of navigating male-dominated industries, overcoming imposter syndrome, building cultural agility across continents, and learning why diversity is a competitive advantage rather than a challenge to overcome. She also discusses her work launching EWPN Denmark, the importance of male allyship, and why meaningful inclusion requires action from every leader, manager and colleague.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, recorded live at Fin.Tech Marketing Conference 2026, Nadia Edwards-Dashti sits down with Kelly Waller, Global VP Field Marketing at Gradient, 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 been a constant thread throughout her career and why inclusion cannot be left to chance. The conversation explores the responsibility marketing teams have to build trust, the importance of bringing your whole self to work, and the growing concern around organisations stepping back from diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.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
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 (Allica Bank), Monika Kucharska (Quod Financial), Nicole Heringer (Enfuce), Sinead Lanyon (Symphony), Elaine Mullan (Corlytics), Franky Kentish (10x Banking), Rashmi Prabhakar (Temenos), Dalia Nightingale (Vixio) and Professor Iwa Salami (University of East London).Together, they discuss the impact of AI on the future of work, why diversity of thought remains critical for innovation, how leaders can create environments of psychological safety, and whether the famous phrase "culture eats strategy for breakfast" still holds true in today's rapidly evolving business landscape.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 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 structural challenges that continue to impact women's careers, from representation and retention to progression and pay equity. 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
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 through inclusive branding, accessible content, transparent leadership, and creating workplaces where everyone feels part of the conversation.The discussion also covers the evolving skills needed in FinTech marketing, why employers should hire for attitude and potential, and how simple acts of kindness and inclusion can transform workplace 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
In this episode of FinTech's DEI Discussions, Nadia sits down with Marie Weidlich from Open Finance Community 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 what it means to thrive in an industry constantly shaped by change.The conversation also dives into AI, community-building, adaptability, and why the future of finance will belong to people who can think beyond traditional career boxes.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, 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 Morgan, HSBC and now Crown Agents Bank, John shares the journey that led him to CEO and the lessons he has learned along the way.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 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 importance of partnerships, and why life experience matters just as much as technical skills in today's FinTech landscape.A thought-provoking episode on making finance work for everyone, and what the industry must do next.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 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 career progression. The conversation also tackles pay, promotions, and the systemic challenges still facing women in financial services.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
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 greater for women, affecting confidence and engagement with financial systems.They also explore the rise of human-led scams, the importance of better education, and why more diverse perspectives are critical to building safer, more inclusive fintech.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, 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, navigating imposter syndrome, and often being the only Black woman in the room. But this isn't just a story about challenges. It's about what happens when you keep showing up, keep learning, and step into your power.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
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 the biggest barrier to progress isn't capability, it's access. And why, if hiring pipelines don't change, neither will the outcomes.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
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 banking, to the risks of a fully digital ecosystem, the panel explores where the industry is falling short—and where real progress is happening. There's a clear message: inclusion isn't a side initiative, it's fundamental to how financial systems should be built.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, 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 future of financial services.Together, they unpack the reality of what's being called an “inclusion recession” in FinTech. From regressive hiring practices and systemic barriers to the risks of unchecked AI and lack of diverse voices, this episode connects the dots between people, processes, and performance across the sector.Sam shares candid insights into the structural challenges holding the industry back, why short-term DEI initiatives are not enough, and what needs to change at a systemic level to drive real, sustainable outcomes.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 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.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
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 performance, and how purpose-led decisions can shape more meaningful careers.This is a conversation about confidence, connection, and building a career that truly reflects your value.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 speaks with Catherine, a Tech and AI Strategist, about navigating careers in an AI-driven world.Catherine 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 career accelerator, and why working hard alone is no longer enough.They also discuss inclusion in action, from the importance of sponsorship over mentorship to the small, everyday actions that can create real change across the industry.A practical and thought-provoking conversation on careers, AI, and building a more inclusive future in FinTech.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 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 syndrome to recognising the value of transferable skills, she offers a powerful perspective on how professionals from non-technical backgrounds can successfully pivot into FinTech.The conversation dives into the diversity of talent shaping the sector today, highlighting the unexpected backgrounds driving innovation, from academia to cybersecurity and beyond. Sophia also challenges the industry to think more deeply about inclusion, moving beyond visibility to address the structural barriers that still exist in the workplace.This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a career move into FinTech, as well as leaders looking to create more inclusive, equitable environments where diverse talent can thrive.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
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, tech, and FinTech, Ingrid shares honest insights on why traditional job search strategies no longer work, how networking has become the most powerful career tool, and what candidates need to do differently to stand out in a competitive market. She also breaks down how to position transferable skills effectively and why mindset shifts, like reframing yourself as an “in-betweener”, can make a real difference.Whether you're hiring, job searching, or leading a team in FinTech, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world perspective.
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 ownership and adaptability, this conversation explores what really drives success in FinTech roles.They also discuss how better onboarding, coaching, and clearer expectations can improve hiring outcomes and retention across financial services.A must-listen for anyone hiring, leading, or building a career in FinTech.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
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, the importance of networks, and why your skills, relationships and reputation matter more than ever in today's market.The conversation also explores inclusion in financial technology, highlighting how access, mentorship and value exchange can shape more diverse and future-ready organisations.If you're navigating change, thinking about your next move, or hiring in FinTech, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what it really takes to build a career that lasts.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
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 their best.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 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 fintech depends on humans and AI working together, not in competition.The episode also dives into responsible AI, bias, and the importance of ensuring innovation benefits everyone across financial services.If you're working in fintech, financial services, or technology, this is a must-listen on how AI, inclusion, and leadership are shaping the future of 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
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 are critical to building stronger teams. From navigating career growth to creating environments where different voices are heard, this episode explores what inclusive leadership really looks like in practice.A thoughtful discussion on the future of leadership in financial technology and the role individuals and organisations play in shaping more 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
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 progression. Through personal stories and powerful discussions, speakers explore the moments when someone opened a door for them, and how leaders can create opportunities for the next generation of talent in FinTech.From navigating careers in male-dominated industries to exploring the role of AI and emerging technology, this episode captures the conversations shaping leadership and talent across financial technology today.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 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 inclusion starts with action, not just conversation.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
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 and brand recognition in today's shrinking media landscape. She also explores why every company is now a media company, how AI is reshaping marketing, and why genuine human relationships matter more than ever in an AI-saturated world.A thoughtful, practical conversation for founders, marketers and leaders committed to building more visible, inclusive financial technology ecosystems.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 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 openly about facing discrimination while fundraising, how that experience led her to found Blockchain for Her, and why she believes inclusion isn't optional if Web3 is to achieve mainstream adoption.This is a conversation about:- Leadership in a decentralised world- Building Web3 without bias- Why trust is non-negotiable- And what “Ladies Forward” truly meansIf Web3 is about rewriting systems, who gets funded, who gets heard, and who shapes the infrastructure of the future matters more than ever.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
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, mentoring, and building diverse FinTech teams that create better products.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
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 payments, Konstantina shares why:Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not.Inclusion isn't an agenda item — it's BAU.And listening with intention is one of the most underrated leadership skills in FinTech today.They explore psychological safety, sponsorship, legacy, purpose-driven leadership, and how data leaders can create real human impact across billions of people.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
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 power of diversity of thought, and why reasonable adjustments shouldn't feel awkward or exceptional. Neetu shares practical insight into embedding belonging into emerging talent programmes and talent acquisition strategies, not as an add-on, but as a foundation.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
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 decisions shape careers, cultures, and futures across our industry.From creating fair opportunity and challenging quiet bias, to sharing access, visibility, and belief — this conversation is about leadership grounded in reality, not slogans.
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
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-first hiring and empathy in leadership to the small changes that unlock overlooked potential, this conversation is practical, honest, and grounded in real industry 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
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 stronger decision-making and innovation, and what leaders can do to move from intent to impact. Gary also shares practical insight on collaboration between banks and FinTechs, trust, regulation, and why inclusion is ongoing work, not a tick-box exercise.If you care about building high-performing, inclusive teams in FinTech, this one's for you.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, 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 into lived experience. Together, they explore why inclusion isn't a tick-box exercise, but a genuine performance driver for FinTechs building the next generation of banking and embedded finance.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 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 journey, reflections on representation, and why challenging who's in the room is critical to building fairer financial products.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
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