What Type of Person Thrives in the FinTech Industry According to a Director of Strategic Finance at Tala
Zu, a Director of Strategic Finance at Tala, emphasizes deep customer understanding as crucial for success in FinTech, recommending firsthand experience— "getting on the phone, interviewing them"—to truly grasp customer needs. Further, strong technical skills, meticulousness ("triple check your work"), and collaborative relationship-building across the company are highlighted as essential for career advancement, particularly in senior roles, where alignment toward a shared company goal is paramount.
Customer Focus, Technical Skills, Relationship Building, Continuous Learning, Strong Work Ethic
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Zu Daya
Director of Strategic Finance
Tala
University of Toronto
MBA, University of Toronto
Biology & Related Sciences, Economics
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
International Student, Honors Student, Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Understanding the customer is key: Immerse yourself in learning about the customer base through various means, such as interviews and real-world interactions. Zu emphasizes the importance of this, drawing parallels to selling a product you deeply understand.
2. Technical Proficiency: Develop strong analytical and modeling skills. Zu stresses the need for accuracy and thoroughness, advising multiple checks and seeking feedback from colleagues.
3. Relationship Building: Cultivate strong relationships with colleagues across different departments. Collaboration and shared goals are crucial for success, especially in senior roles.
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
The people who thrive in FinTech, and I'm focusing on FinTech generally as microfinance might be too granular, have a really good understanding of their customer.
If you're joining a company like Tala, or one that's been around for multiple years, you'd likely learn a lot from existing employees. For those who want to stand out, really spend time learning your customer. Get on the phone, interview them if possible, and talk to people.
I had the benefit of going back to Tanzania while working at Tala. Tanzania borders Kenya, and while I was there, I asked people about loans and microfinance. You learn so much more that way.
I typically tell students who want to break into strategy or any role to consider their favorite sport. If you had to sell American footballs or soccer cleats, you'd be able to sell the cleats much better if you know and use them well. Get into that mindset.
The second part is the technicals. Be good at modeling and triple-check your work. Don't be shy to ask colleagues to double-check it too. I recommend doing a model, doing another task, taking a walk, and then reviewing it yourself. This is more for junior to mid-level roles.
For more senior roles, really focus on building and maintaining strong relationships across the company. Everyone has the goal of growing the company, and also their own personal goals to learn and develop. You have to have an open mind about that. Going into meetings with this mindset has worked for me and I think it would work for others.