Zoe Chowney

Tell us your story:

"I have a proven record of significant achievement, both in the corporate world and as an entrepreneur, underpinned by my early career as a Chartered Certified Accountant. After qualifying, I held senior international roles that provided me with a strong foundation in finance and business strategy, preparing me for the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship.

My entrepreneurial journey began with the co-founding of a company that navigated the complex process of an IPO, which demonstrated my ability to lead a business through rigorous financial and regulatory scrutiny. Following the IPO process, the company was acquired by WPP, one of the world’s largest communications groups. I then successfully completed a four-year earn-out, ensuring the seamless integration of the company into WPP while maintaining its growth and profitability.

Building on this success, I became the European Managing Director of an Israeli technology company backed by Sequoia Capital. Tasked with establishing the company’s European operations, I achieved market leadership within just 18 months, demonstrating my ability to scale businesses rapidly and effectively in highly competitive environments.

Continuing my entrepreneurial pursuits, I co-founded a technology company specialising in anti-tamper RFID asset tagging, a cutting-edge solution for tracking leased assets. This innovative technology was adopted by VW Financial Services and deployed across all their vehicle dealerships in India, showcasing the global reach and impact of our solutions.

Currently, I am the founder and CEO of Bacano.io, a growing Fintech company that leverages frontier technology to streamline R&D tax claims, option scheme management, and grant application processes for businesses. This venture reflects my desire to innovate and my ability to identify and address critical market needs. Bacano.io shortlisted for Innovative StartUp of the Year in the 2023 StartUp Awards."

Impact:

"As a trans woman, I know first hand how difficult such a journey can be within the business environment. Transitioning cost me my first marriage and also one of the businesses that I was a director of at the time.

I am committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the business community. I co-chair the Gay Women’s Network, (1,500 professional LGBTQIA+ women in London), and serve as a director of Series Q, (1,200 LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs).

I also founded and chair Pride in Business, which helps SMEs demonstrate their support of diversity, and am a member of the Tech London Advocates LGBTQIA+ committee. These roles underscore my dedication to fostering inclusive environments in both business and society."

Advice:

"For members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking to develop careers in FinTech, here are some key pieces of advice:

1. Leverage Your Unique Perspective: Diversity of thought is a huge asset in FinTech, and your experiences as an LGBTQIA+ individual can offer unique insights into user needs, inclusivity, and innovation. Use this to your advantage when solving problems or creating products.

2. Find Inclusive Employers: Seek out FinTech companies that prioritise diversity, equity, and inclusion. Look for organisations with strong diversity policies, employee resource groups (ERGs), and inclusive benefits. These companies will likely offer more supportive work environments, which is key for long-term career growth.

3. Network Within and Beyond the LGBTQIA+ Community: Join LGBTQIA+ professional groups in FinTech and technology, such as organisations like Out in Tech or Lesbians Who Tech. Additionally, build networks beyond the LGBTQIA+ community to gain visibility, mentorship, and career opportunities in the broader industry.

4. Sharpen Your Technical and Business Skills: FinTech is highly competitive and constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends in both finance and technology by investing in skills like coding, data analysis, blockchain, and understanding financial regulations.

5. Be Visible and Authentic: If you feel safe and comfortable, being visible and authentic at work can help foster a culture of inclusivity, both for yourself and others. Authenticity can build stronger relationships, make you a role model, and open doors for leadership opportunities.

6. Seek Mentorship and Role Models: Find mentors who understand your career aspirations and can help guide your path. Look for LGBTQIA+ leaders within the FinTech space for inspiration and advice, as they may have valuable insights on how to navigate challenges.

By blending technical expertise with an inclusive and open approach to career development, LGBTQIA+ individuals can not only thrive in FinTech but also help shape its future as a more inclusive and innovative industry."