Maryam Hassan is the Lead of API Strategy and Partnership at Leatherback, a UK-based cross-border fintech solution. With a decade of experience in banking and fintech, she has played a pivotal role in shaping innovative financial technologies and fostering strategic partnerships. Her expertise spans API and digital platform development, business creation, and payment strategy, making her a key figure in the fintech industry.
Additionally, Maryam’s deep understanding of cross-border financial transactions has significantly contributed to Leatherback’s mission of simplifying global payments and enhancing financial inclusion. Her leadership and vision continue to drive the company’s growth and success in the competitive fintech landscape. In this exclusive conversation, she explains the future of borderless fintech, what drives her, and shares her insights on the industry’s evolving landscape.
Can we get to know you?
My name is Maryam Hassan, and I’m currently the API payment strategy and partnerships lead at Leatherback. I have been in the financial services industry for a decade, transitioning from banking to FinTech. Over this time, I have developed a strong background in strategic partnerships, payment solutions, digital platforms, product development, and business strategy.
My key strength lies in being results-driven and committed to seeing projects through to the end, as demonstrated by transforming the API product into a real business venture with my team. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, dancing, eating, and volunteering in my community.
What inspired you to join Leatherback?
The vision of Leatherback, which is to be a technology company that enables global finance payments, commerce, and lifestyle opportunities, was clear from the start. I wanted to be part of that vision from the beginning because I’m more of a builder than a manager. I wanted to help build something impactful and see the results of my efforts.
It’s incredibly fulfilling to see people using what I’ve helped create and experiencing the joy it brings them. Working with the team to build the API product and seeing merchants use the platform, along with the transaction volumes and revenue it generates, truly inspires me.
Do you have any role models or mentors who influence your career path?
Yes, I do. He is currently a fintech expert in the industry and has significantly contributed to the fintech space in Nigeria. I was fortunate to work with him early in my career. Much of what I know today and the direction my career has taken is largely due to his influence. He pushed me to take on more responsibilities and explore new areas, which made it easier for me to thrive in this space.
My fintech experience really started during my time in the banking industry, where I led and managed fintech businesses and partnerships. Even though I was in a bank, I was deeply involved in the fintech space before transitioning fully. I am constantly inspired by women in positions of power and their contributions to the tech community, and I aspire to be a thought leader in my field and make a difference in the world of tech. Additionally, Clayton Christensen’s work on disruptive innovation inspires me to put in the effort in what I currently do.
As an API team lead at Leatherback. How does the API team contribute to the overall goals of the company?
As the API team lead, it’s my responsibility to ensure that the team aligns with the vision I believe in. This begins with understanding Leatherback’s vision and the crucial role the API team plays in achieving it. The team knows how their work contributes to Leatherback’s overall goals and how the API product adds value to our core offerings. They recognize the importance of their roles in driving innovation, opening new revenue streams, and aiding market expansion for Leatherback. Our collective aspiration is to become the leading payment gateway and preferred partner for any merchants or businesses seeking quick go-to-market solutions.
Can you describe a day in your life as an API team lead?
My day usually starts with a workout, something I had to incorporate into my lifestyle given the demands of my work. I wake up as early as 6:30 am to ensure I get my exercise in before the day begins. Once at my work desk, I first look through my calendar to see my scheduled meetings for the day and review my to-do list, which I put together at the start of the week. I then go through my emails before my meetings start, which typically begins at 10 am.
My days are usually filled with meetings, and sometimes I have to reschedule them to make time for emails, phone calls, and messages on Slack and WhatsApp from customers, clients, and colleagues. Since we run a largely remote team, with some hybrid members, we use Slack, WhatsApp, and Google Meet to stay connected, in addition to our daily emails. I also spend part of my day surfing the internet to stay updated on new industry trends. Of course, I make sure to eat and drink lots of water throughout the day. That’s a typical day for me as a lead at Leatherback.
Can you share some innovative features or functionalities that your API offers that set you apart from your competitors?
At Leatherback, we’re revolutionizing real-time cross-border payments to reduce transaction costs and time, ensuring funds reach beneficiaries quickly. We offer competitive currency exchanges and multicurrency payment gateways, allowing businesses to collect and settle in various currencies seamlessly.
Our platform is a one-stop shop for global collections and payouts, promoting financial inclusion with multiple payment methods. Security is paramount, providing merchants with customizable solutions and a seamless, scalable API infrastructure. Additionally, we offer data analytics and insights to add value for our customers by leveraging transaction data.
As a team lead, how do you keep your team motivated and engaged during crunch time?
As the team lead, maintaining composure is crucial because the team looks up to me for guidance and support. Crunch times can be very challenging, often leading to burnout and stress, so it’s essential to be there for the team, offering support and reassurance. I ensure clarity about what needs to be done and why, within the given timeframe, and because the team is aligned with our vision, they understand their crucial role in achieving our goals.
I make sure they have everything they need to deliver on our targets and provide regular check-ins and room for rest when needed. Staying positive, engaged, and available, and continually recognizing the team’s efforts and the impact of their work, helps keep morale high and ensures we can meet our objectives.
So now with your over 10 years of experience both in the banking and now fintech, where do you see the fintech industry in the next 10 years? And what role do you hope or see Leatherback play in it?
In the next 10 years, I foresee AI finding its niche amidst the current hype. As an emerging technology, AI will likely integrate into fintech products and services, enhancing digital customer experiences and fostering competitive differentiation. Moving through the Gartner Hype Cycle, AI will eventually reach the plateau of productivity, where its capabilities and benefits are widely understood and applied.
For us at Leatherback, embracing AI could mean leveraging it to innovate and lead in cross-border payments and other sectors. Effective governance will be crucial to manage risks and ensure ethical use, shaping policies around data security, access control, and ethical conduct to foster safe and impactful AI integration.
What do you find most rewarding about working in the fintech space, especially with cross-border solutions?
The fulfilling aspect of cross-border solutions is witnessing how seamlessly people can make payments across borders, continents, or regions. In frontier and emerging markets, the challenge lies in providing a simple, fast, affordable, and borderless payment solution, which is what we offer at Leatherback. Knowing that we are solving real-life problems, such as enabling over 800 million people worldwide to receive essential funds for food, education, and medical needs from abroad, is incredibly rewarding. We continue to innovate and address these critical challenges in the cross-border space.
What’s your favorite tech gadget or two that you can’t live without?
If we’re talking about tech gadgets, my AirPods and iWatch are indispensable. My AirPods enable me to multitask effortlessly, allowing me to talk on the go without being tied down by my phone. This freedom enhances my productivity and efficiency. Meanwhile, my iWatch is essential for staying organized and healthy. It keeps me connected by allowing me to read emails and track my daily activities, prompting me to stand and check my breathing regularly. Together, these gadgets are crucial tools that I rely on daily.
What are some of the most exciting trends and innovations you’re seeing in the tech world right now?
The tech world is constantly evolving, and some of the most exciting trends and innovations I’m seeing now include the vast potential of AI and machine learning, exemplified by tools like ChatGPT solving diverse industry needs. Smart cities and offices, powered by IoT and 5G technology, are transforming urban landscapes. Extended realities such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer immersive experiences. Sustainable technology and cybersecurity enhancements, where AI also plays a crucial role, are gaining significant traction. These advancements represent the dynamic and promising future of technology today.
So if you could invent a piece of technology to solve any problem, right now, what would it be? And why?
Imagine a technology that helps us understand our purpose here on Earth—why we exist and what we’re meant to accomplish. Some people spend their whole lives searching for this purpose, while others discover it late or early in life. Having a technology that clarifies our purpose could make it easier to align with our true calling and contribute meaningfully to the world. It would be like having a job description for life itself—a clear roadmap that guides us in fulfilling our role in the grand scheme of things.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?
I love dancing and exploring new places and restaurants, which ties into my passion for travel. Volunteering is also a significant part of my life—I dedicate time to mentoring through programs like JIIPCC, where I speak quarterly on fintech business models and sector impact. Additionally, I’m involved in ATRD, a group focused on promoting racial diversity among charity trustees, using my partnership experience to help recruit finance professionals from Black and Asian backgrounds. These activities fulfill me outside of my professional endeavors.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be the power of having the right mindset. Your outlook on life and career shapes who you become, and with the right mindset, there’s nothing you cannot achieve when you set your mind to it. The mind is incredibly powerful and influences everything.
Today, this mindset guides the paths I’ve pursued, fostering a positive outlook both at work and in my personal life. It has fueled my innovation, boosted my confidence in tackling new challenges, and enabled me to effectively lead my team. I strive to cultivate a culture of learning and growth, encouraging continuous personal and professional development through a positive mindset and outlook on life.
What books, podcasts, or resources have had a significant impact on your professional development? Can you share it?
Yes, I have a few favorites. One book I really love is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. It’s not a professional book per se, but it resonates with the advice I give about having the right mindset—it teaches how the universe aligns to fulfill your desires. Another book that has helped in my professional development is “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries, which is valuable whether you’re an intrapreneur or entrepreneur.
For podcasts, I enjoy “The Tim Ferriss Show” because it explores entrepreneurship, startup journeys, successes, and failures. I also follow fintech podcasts and frequently read articles on Medium, which is great for staying updated on industry trends and insights from leaders. Additionally, I engage with payments and tech communities on LinkedIn and attend webinars to stay informed.
It’s been a pleasure talking to you I must say.
Thank you for having me.
