I learned hard work really pays off. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who’s exceptionally successful who doesn’t work exceptionally hard. I’ve also learned that this is a very relationship-driven business, so taking the time to make sure you have good relationships really makes a difference. Finally, don’t believe everything everyone tells you. It’s best to double check.

I’ve spent my career focused on fintech and financial services, and that’s my focus at SBIA as well. More specifically, I really like businesses that focus on new payment modes. We’ve seen an increase in account-to-account payments, so there’s a bit of a disintermediation happening on the payment side. I’m also quite interested in embedded finance. Pretty much any type of enterprise should be able to incorporate financial services into their offering.

I think the biggest change is going to be what you consider to be a financial services company. It's no longer just going to be your bank. It’s going to be where you buy your phone, for example. Manufacturers and tech companies will be able to provide the financing and the insurance in addition to the product itself. The experiences might feel similar to the consumer, but by providing financial services on top of their existing businesses, companies will be able to make a better margin.

I learn a lot from listening. I’m open and transparent, which is something I find most founders appreciate, even if it’s not exactly what they want to hear. I’m also quite collaborative.

I really appreciate founders who are creative. You might start off thinking a product is going to look a certain way, but externalities change. The best founders can pivot their businesses quite a bit, and do it fast. They don't get too scared of failure, will work with what they have, and will ask for help.  

You can’t really compromise on honesty and integrity. I have two young kids, so family is also very important to me. That’s priority number one, even though work is quite time consuming.

I value people who are resilient, who are doers, and who will execute. There are many people out there who talk a big game, but rarely do you find people who get off the couch and execute on what they want to do.