Jim Perry

Tell us your story:

I’m a senior strategist at Market Insights. We help financial institutions make smarter decisions and unlock new paths to growth through custom research and data-driven strategy. I joined the firm 20 years ago and I’ve had to opportunity to work with hundreds of community banks and credit unions throughout the US on everything from growth strategy to marketing to culture. I've helped promote and amplify the work of innovative fintechs that successfully partner with those community based institutions, and raise the visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout the industry

Named one of the "Top 100 Fintech Influencers" by Onalytica, I have been a regular on the speaker circuit at industry events of all sizes, from local associations to global conferences. I've also been a familiar voice on top podcasts like Breaking Banks, Banking Transformed, One Vision, and the American Banker Podcast. Additionally, I co-founded the Fintech Book Club on LinkedIn and serves on the board of the National Alliance for Financial Literacy and Inclusion, championing broader access and opportunity in financial services.

Thousands of community bankers and credit union leaders follow my daily posts and weekly emails for fresh takes on the latest in fintech, AI, DEI, marketing, M&A, and more. Deluxe named me one of the 20 leaders in modern banking every community banker should follow.

Impact:

I’m a proud and happily married gay man. And while I certainly don’t speak for the entire community, I know from personal experience that LGBTQIA+ Americans still face distinct financial needs and challenges. I often remind clients and colleagues that meeting the unique needs of the LGBTQIA+ community isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a growth opportunity for institutions that take inclusion seriously.

As I shared in my recent LinkedIn post marking the beginning of Pride Month 2025 (https://tinyurl.com/yc3e5a45) for months, major financial institutions have been scaling back or rebranding their #DEI commitments. Political and cultural pressures have also led some institutions to retreat from even the most symbolic displays of support during Pride Month. Of course, visibility isn’t everything. But when it disappears, its absence speaks volumes. Silence is, in fact, a statement. We must all lead with integrity and ensure that the financial sector's support for LGBTQIA+ consumers and employees is not only seen, but felt—not just in June, but all year long.

I've leveraged my network to increase the presence and profile of LGBTQIA+ individuals within financial services and worked to make sure the needs of LGBTQIA+ consumers are included on conference agendas. In the past few years I have moderated panels at Finovate (both Spring & Fall in the US) and Money2020USA's RiseUp & Amplify initiative.

Advice:

FinTech thrives on disruption and fresh thinking—and your perspective can help banks, credit unions and fintechs build better, more accessible solutions for all consumers. Get comfortable being visible - when it is safe.

Be intentional about networking. There are a growing number of out and proud LGBTQIA+ individuals and vocal allies in positions throughout the fintech ecosystem. Connect with them and learn from their journeys. Participate in the networks that exist for the community within fintech workplaces and at events and conferences. And if those networks don't exist, lead one or insist that they be created.

But most importantly, remember that you have something unique to offer. You belong here and the industry needs diverse thinkers and LGBTQIA+ perspectives now more than ever.