I believe that true leadership is about driving change, solving complex challenges, and empowering teams to achieve more. Every initiative I lead is guided by a clear vision, strategic...Read moreI believe that true leadership is about driving change, solving complex challenges, and empowering teams to achieve more. Every initiative I lead is guided by a clear vision, strategic execution, and the determination to turn ambitious goals into reality.
My experience includes leading successful €60M–€80M digital transformation programs across Central and Eastern Europe, both in Markets & Treasury and Commercial Banking. These initiatives have delivered tangible cost-to-serve reductions, digital modernization, infrastructure and architecture optimization, product standardization, and significant enhancements in operational efficiency and customer experience.
I have streamlined digital systems and achieved notable cost savings, including €1M–€2M through targeted vendor strategies. Additionally, I industrialized capital markets services support by establishing a Centre of Excellence in Poland and outsourcing to offshore external personnel.
As Chief Operating & Digital Transformation Officer, responsible for Digital, Data, Infrastructure, and Security Strategy, I have led and motivated large teams of 200–450 professionals. I have earned the trust of senior executives by driving innovative, sustainable strategies and delivering a robust project portfolio—including 80+ projects and over 6,000 micro-changes per year—spanning the entire financial value chain: retail channels, core banking, treasury, payments, ERP/finance, operations, Risk & AML compliance, and more. My hands-on leadership has driven process simplification, digitalization, personnel optimization, and cloud transition, while ensuring the seamless operation of complex digital ecosystems, including 300 applications, core banking platforms, data centers, and customer contact centers (serving up to 4,000 internal employees and over 1 million external customers). I have also managed substantial budgets, overseeing €50M–€80M in CapEx and OpEx.
My approach combines forward-thinking initiatives with a strong emphasis on cost efficiency and long-term value creation, achieved through close cross-functional collaboration. I have a hands-on leadership style and never hesitate to roll up my sleeves, actively engaging in any initiative where my team needs support to drive success.
Notably, I have:
• Implemented a comprehensive AI/ML and RPA (robotic process automation) program, optimize resource utilization of up 40 FTEs through 100 automations and significantly enhancing both internal and external user experiences.
• Orchestrated a cloud transition strategy, ensuring scalability and resilience
• Executed large-scale team reorganizations, optimizing personnel efficiency and reducing headcount by over 30 resources.
• .Led extended recovery programs to enhance security posture and achieve full DORA compliance across an expansive digital landscape.
• Spearheaded the reengineering of AML and FATCA digital solutions to meet regulatory deadlines, including KYC digitalization.
• Led a data center relocation, mitigating operational risks while ensuring zero service outages.
As an extended board member and Country Director, I have held P&L responsibility and played a key role in defining and achieving multi-year strategic plans. This experience has strengthened my expertise in Finance, Procurement, Operations, HR, and Board-level decision-making as both a legal representative and international deputy to the CEO.
My strategic vision and hands-on leadership have earned industry recognition, including the Global Finance Award for Best Digital Bank and Best Mobile Application in Bulgaria.
With a strong foundation in consultancy and a proven ability to navigate multi-cultural environments, I excel at building bridges among stakeholders, providing strategic guidance to senior management, and shaping long-term roadmaps.
I am driven to lead growth initiatives, spark innovation, and create tangible value. With a track record of navigating complex regulatory landscapes, fostering strong stakeholder relationships, and consistently achieving strategic objectives, I am eager to leverage my expertise in digital transformation, operational efficiency, and international leadership in a C-level or board role—within or beyond the financial sector—to drive meaningful impact at the highest level.
