6 answers
Shahzaib
Student
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
1
Question
Updated
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How should I transition to fintech?
I am currently working as a business development manager with 5 years of experience in the renewable energy sector. I know wish to transition towards the fintech industry in a similar role of business development. What skills should I acquire for this purpose and what certifications can I get to find a job at a reputable company? Also, what type of companies are recruiting on remote basis in the Fintech Industry?
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6 answers
Alex da Silva
Product Management
20
Answers
Birmingham
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Leverage your transferable Business Dev skills you already have. You can use that to transition. As a starter, research and gain some domain knowledge on the specific fintech industry you are looking into. Be it, Digital Payments, Accounting and Tax, Lending, Banking, Investments, etc. Combining those 2 will set you to confident in your applications and interviews.
William Nwaogu
Construction, CAD and BIM
299
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
William’s Answer
Inorder for you to transition to Fintech from the renewable energy sector. You need to develope yourself in information technology, and finance or financial management.
Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) is a good place to learn or through relevant courses by professional bodies or IT schools.
Areas of high demand: financial software applications development and management, blockchain technology, foreign exchange, financial market, smart banking and payment solutions.
Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) is a good place to learn or through relevant courses by professional bodies or IT schools.
Areas of high demand: financial software applications development and management, blockchain technology, foreign exchange, financial market, smart banking and payment solutions.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6308
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Shahzaib!
Transitioning to Fintech: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Skills to Acquire
To successfully transition from a business development role in the renewable energy sector to a similar position in fintech, you should focus on acquiring the following skills:
Financial Acumen: Understanding financial principles, products, and markets is crucial. Familiarize yourself with concepts such as investment strategies, risk management, and financial regulations.
Data Analysis: Fintech relies heavily on data for decision-making. Learning how to analyze data using tools like Excel, SQL, or Python can be beneficial. Understanding how to interpret financial metrics will also be advantageous.
Regulatory Knowledge: The fintech industry is highly regulated. Gaining knowledge about compliance requirements and regulations such as Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) will be important.
Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with technology platforms used in fintech (such as blockchain, payment gateways, or mobile banking applications) can set you apart. Basic programming skills or understanding software development processes can also be helpful.
Sales and Negotiation Skills: Since you are transitioning within business development, enhancing your sales techniques and negotiation skills specific to financial products will be essential.
Networking and Relationship Management: Building relationships with stakeholders in the fintech space is vital. This includes understanding how to engage with clients, partners, and regulatory bodies effectively.
2. Certifications to Consider
Certifications can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your commitment to transitioning into fintech. Here are some recommended certifications:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP): This certification provides a comprehensive understanding of personal finance and investment strategies.
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): While more intensive, this certification covers investment analysis and portfolio management extensively.
Fintech Certification Programs: Various online platforms offer specialized courses in fintech that cover topics like blockchain technology, digital payments, and regulatory frameworks. Look for programs from institutions like Coursera or edX that partner with universities.
Data Analytics Certifications: Courses from providers like Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate or Microsoft Certified Data Analyst Associate can help you gain necessary data analysis skills relevant to fintech.
Project Management Professional (PMP): If you’re interested in managing projects within fintech companies, this certification can provide valuable project management skills applicable across industries.
3. Companies Recruiting Remotely in Fintech
The fintech industry has seen a significant shift towards remote work opportunities. Some types of companies actively recruiting for remote positions include:
Digital Banks: Institutions like Chime or Revolut often have remote roles available across various departments including business development.
Payment Processors: Companies such as Stripe or Square frequently hire remotely for roles related to sales and partnerships.
Investment Platforms: Firms like Robinhood or Wealthfront may offer remote positions focusing on business growth strategies.
Blockchain Startups: Many startups in the blockchain space are open to remote work arrangements due to their decentralized nature.
To find these opportunities, consider utilizing job boards specifically targeting tech jobs such as AngelList or Remote.co which list many remote positions in the fintech sector.
In summary, transitioning into the fintech industry requires a blend of financial knowledge, technical skills, relevant certifications, and an understanding of the unique landscape of this sector. By focusing on these areas while actively seeking out remote opportunities at various types of companies within fintech, you can position yourself effectively for a successful career transition.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Coursera
An online learning platform offering courses from top universities that cover various aspects of finance and technology including specialized programs in fintech.
Investopedia
A well-respected resource providing detailed explanations of financial concepts which is useful for gaining foundational knowledge necessary for transitioning into finance-related fields.
LinkedIn Learning
Offers professional development courses including those focused on business development skills tailored specifically for roles within the tech and finance sectors.
GOD BLESS!
JC.
Transitioning to Fintech: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Skills to Acquire
To successfully transition from a business development role in the renewable energy sector to a similar position in fintech, you should focus on acquiring the following skills:
Financial Acumen: Understanding financial principles, products, and markets is crucial. Familiarize yourself with concepts such as investment strategies, risk management, and financial regulations.
Data Analysis: Fintech relies heavily on data for decision-making. Learning how to analyze data using tools like Excel, SQL, or Python can be beneficial. Understanding how to interpret financial metrics will also be advantageous.
Regulatory Knowledge: The fintech industry is highly regulated. Gaining knowledge about compliance requirements and regulations such as Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) will be important.
Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with technology platforms used in fintech (such as blockchain, payment gateways, or mobile banking applications) can set you apart. Basic programming skills or understanding software development processes can also be helpful.
Sales and Negotiation Skills: Since you are transitioning within business development, enhancing your sales techniques and negotiation skills specific to financial products will be essential.
Networking and Relationship Management: Building relationships with stakeholders in the fintech space is vital. This includes understanding how to engage with clients, partners, and regulatory bodies effectively.
2. Certifications to Consider
Certifications can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your commitment to transitioning into fintech. Here are some recommended certifications:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP): This certification provides a comprehensive understanding of personal finance and investment strategies.
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): While more intensive, this certification covers investment analysis and portfolio management extensively.
Fintech Certification Programs: Various online platforms offer specialized courses in fintech that cover topics like blockchain technology, digital payments, and regulatory frameworks. Look for programs from institutions like Coursera or edX that partner with universities.
Data Analytics Certifications: Courses from providers like Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate or Microsoft Certified Data Analyst Associate can help you gain necessary data analysis skills relevant to fintech.
Project Management Professional (PMP): If you’re interested in managing projects within fintech companies, this certification can provide valuable project management skills applicable across industries.
3. Companies Recruiting Remotely in Fintech
The fintech industry has seen a significant shift towards remote work opportunities. Some types of companies actively recruiting for remote positions include:
Digital Banks: Institutions like Chime or Revolut often have remote roles available across various departments including business development.
Payment Processors: Companies such as Stripe or Square frequently hire remotely for roles related to sales and partnerships.
Investment Platforms: Firms like Robinhood or Wealthfront may offer remote positions focusing on business growth strategies.
Blockchain Startups: Many startups in the blockchain space are open to remote work arrangements due to their decentralized nature.
To find these opportunities, consider utilizing job boards specifically targeting tech jobs such as AngelList or Remote.co which list many remote positions in the fintech sector.
In summary, transitioning into the fintech industry requires a blend of financial knowledge, technical skills, relevant certifications, and an understanding of the unique landscape of this sector. By focusing on these areas while actively seeking out remote opportunities at various types of companies within fintech, you can position yourself effectively for a successful career transition.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Coursera
An online learning platform offering courses from top universities that cover various aspects of finance and technology including specialized programs in fintech.
Investopedia
A well-respected resource providing detailed explanations of financial concepts which is useful for gaining foundational knowledge necessary for transitioning into finance-related fields.
LinkedIn Learning
Offers professional development courses including those focused on business development skills tailored specifically for roles within the tech and finance sectors.
GOD BLESS!
JC.
Mian Asad
Consultant
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Mian’s Answer
Transitioning from renewable energy to fintech is definitely achievable, especially with your background in business development. Here’s a structured approach to help you make the shift
Think about what are you transferable skills first and what is the role you want to go into. There are a lot of roles in the fintech space that you can simply do a similar role in. If you think that there is a new role that you want then consider what type of skills you need to acquire:
1. Consider first networking with someone in a fintech in a that type of business development role to interview and understand what they do on a day to day and what kind of hard skills you might need to have. Then lets figure out if your current job allows you to get that experience there. Practical experience in that field will always be better than any certification or degree. So if you can demonstrate that you have already done that kind of work (e.g., use SQL to pull large sets of data, analyze market trends) then you have already shown proficiency. If you feel like you need to acquire a new skill then a course would be helpful here.
2. Next figure out a list of companies in the market that you would be interested in applying for and regardless of if they are hiring or not try to check LinkedIn to see if you know anyone that works there in that specific role you want. Cold message/email as much as possible but where you have a warm intro use that to get a coffee meeting. Interview this person to understand what it take to succeed in this role, what are the market trends, skills, and other relevant details you should be aware of. Typically these folks can help you with internal referrals or help to find other folks you should also interview.
3. Let update your resume with the new skills and tailor to the job descriptions you are looking for. This will help you to be clear in communicating to the companies you want to apply for that you have the relevant experience. Once this is complete I would start to apply. When you want to switch industries or even jobs in this market volume of applications is the game. So Apply as much as possible
4. This is probably the most important part as you start to get the interviews. What is your WHY? Why do you want to switch? Why do you want to go that field? Why do you want to go to that specific company? These questions will need to be super crystal clear in your head.
Hope this helps :)
Think about what are you transferable skills first and what is the role you want to go into. There are a lot of roles in the fintech space that you can simply do a similar role in. If you think that there is a new role that you want then consider what type of skills you need to acquire:
1. Consider first networking with someone in a fintech in a that type of business development role to interview and understand what they do on a day to day and what kind of hard skills you might need to have. Then lets figure out if your current job allows you to get that experience there. Practical experience in that field will always be better than any certification or degree. So if you can demonstrate that you have already done that kind of work (e.g., use SQL to pull large sets of data, analyze market trends) then you have already shown proficiency. If you feel like you need to acquire a new skill then a course would be helpful here.
2. Next figure out a list of companies in the market that you would be interested in applying for and regardless of if they are hiring or not try to check LinkedIn to see if you know anyone that works there in that specific role you want. Cold message/email as much as possible but where you have a warm intro use that to get a coffee meeting. Interview this person to understand what it take to succeed in this role, what are the market trends, skills, and other relevant details you should be aware of. Typically these folks can help you with internal referrals or help to find other folks you should also interview.
3. Let update your resume with the new skills and tailor to the job descriptions you are looking for. This will help you to be clear in communicating to the companies you want to apply for that you have the relevant experience. Once this is complete I would start to apply. When you want to switch industries or even jobs in this market volume of applications is the game. So Apply as much as possible
4. This is probably the most important part as you start to get the interviews. What is your WHY? Why do you want to switch? Why do you want to go that field? Why do you want to go to that specific company? These questions will need to be super crystal clear in your head.
Hope this helps :)
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
339
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Transitioning to fintech sounds exciting! With your business development experience, you're already on a strong foundation. To make the switch, focus on gaining skills in financial analysis, data interpretation, and understanding fintech regulations. Learning about blockchain, digital payments, and risk management will also be beneficial.
Certifications like Certified Business Development Expert (CBDE) or FinTech Professional Certification can enhance your profile. Look for companies like Stripe, Square, and Robinhood, which often have remote opportunities. Additionally, keep an eye on job boards specifically for fintech roles. Your experience can make you a valuable asset in this innovative industry—go for it!
Certifications like Certified Business Development Expert (CBDE) or FinTech Professional Certification can enhance your profile. Look for companies like Stripe, Square, and Robinhood, which often have remote opportunities. Additionally, keep an eye on job boards specifically for fintech roles. Your experience can make you a valuable asset in this innovative industry—go for it!
Sophy Kakkunny
Engineering Manager
2
Answers
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Sophy’s Answer
Good to hear that you have 5 years of experience in renewable energy space which is also a new area like Fintech that is coming up. Curious to understand the motivations behind transitioning from renewable energy to fintech.
For Fintech specifically since it is a domain of both finance and technology you will need to get indepth into finance concepts and also get handon training on technologies that power these. Depending on the job/ area of work you can learn concepts from latest trends like blockchain, AI in finance , payment systems, robo-advisors, digital banking etc.
Build Professional Connections: Join fintech groups on LinkedIn, attend industry conferences, and participate in webinars Seek mentors who can provide guidance and insights into the industry. Gain hands-on experience through internships at fintech startups or financial institutions. With these you can build a strong foundation and position yourself for a successful career in fintech.
For Fintech specifically since it is a domain of both finance and technology you will need to get indepth into finance concepts and also get handon training on technologies that power these. Depending on the job/ area of work you can learn concepts from latest trends like blockchain, AI in finance , payment systems, robo-advisors, digital banking etc.
Build Professional Connections: Join fintech groups on LinkedIn, attend industry conferences, and participate in webinars Seek mentors who can provide guidance and insights into the industry. Gain hands-on experience through internships at fintech startups or financial institutions. With these you can build a strong foundation and position yourself for a successful career in fintech.