The number of women in fintech is growing, reflecting remarkable progress and a rising talent pool. Many companies are actively fostering diversity and inclusion, recognizing the unique perspectives and innovations women bring. This positive momentum, supported by initiatives and flexible remote work policies, continues to attract more women into fintech each year, paving the way for a more balanced and diverse ecosystem.
Who is Charmian Simmons?
Charmian Simmons, who started at PwC in 2000 and then worked at Morgan Stanley, one of the US banking giants, left her position as Morgan Stanley Deputy General Manager in 2016. She then held senior management positions at strong companies in the sector such as Lloyds, Thomson Reuters, Refinitiv, and BAE Systems. Since 2022, Simmons has been serving as the Financial Crime and Compliance Expert and Strategy Leader of the artificial intelligence-powered SAAS company SymphonyAI.
SymphonyAI Fincrime & Compliance And Strategy Leader Charmian Simmons
- What do you think about the contributions of women to fintech ecosystem and entrepreneurship, and their experiences in these fields?
Being a woman in fintech means navigating a rapidly evolving industry while embracing both challenges and opportunities that come with innovation, a growth mindset, and gender dynamics. It is inspiring to see women making significant strides—founding startups, leading major initiatives, and driving inclusive technologies that address diverse financial needs. Their presence not only fosters diversity in leadership but also enhances creativity in solutions, paving the way for a more inclusive fintech ecosystem.
- Do you find the number of women in the fintech ecosystem sufficient?
The number of women in fintech is growing, reflecting remarkable progress and a rising talent pool. Many companies are actively fostering diversity and inclusion, recognizing the unique perspectives and innovations women bring. This positive momentum, supported by initiatives and flexible remote work policies, continues to attract more women into fintech each year, paving the way for a more balanced and diverse ecosystem.
- What would you like to say about Turkish fintech startups? Are there any features that distinguish Turkish startups from their global competitors?
Turkish fintechs are well-positioned for success due to several factors. First, Turkey’s strategic location, bridging Europe and Asia, makes it an ideal hub for fintech innovation serving multiple markets. Additionally, its young, tech-savvy population is eager to adopt new technologies, providing a strong consumer base for fintech solutions.
Unlike some markets where fintechs and banks are competitors, Turkey’s fintech ecosystem is often collaborative, working with traditional banks to digitize operations, automate processes, and integrate AI-driven solutions. Moreover, Turkish startups thrive in an economy marked by fluctuations and challenges, fostering resilience and adaptability. These characteristics enable them to not only succeed in the domestic market but also carve out strong positions in global fintech landscapes.
- Can you summarize the development and future of the fintech ecosystem in three words?
Innovative. Disruptive. Evolving.
- What roadmap would you draw for women who want to have a successful career in the fintech industry? What are your suggestions as a first step?
To successfully enter fintech, it is essential to have a strategic approach, a positive mindset, and a fearless attitude! Start by identifying your niche—whether it be financial crime, digital payments, blockchain, cryptocurrencies, cybersecurity, or data science.
Evaluate your strengths, build on your existing skills, and acquire new fintech-relevant competencies like coding or data analytics. Understanding the regulatory environment is also a crucial advantage. Additionally, networking with professionals in the industry and staying updated on emerging trends will be key to your success. By focusing on these areas, you can establish a solid foundation for a thriving career in fintech.
