8 steps to transitioning from traditional banking to a fintech CFO role

What if the future of your finance career looked nothing like your past? That’s the crossroads many banking professionals are facing as fintech companies continue to rewrite the rules of money, data, and leadership. If you’re considering a leap from traditional banking to a CFO seat in fintech, you’re not alone-and there’s never been a better time.

Financial technology is expanding at a breakneck pace, drawing sharp minds from established banks, investment houses, and accounting firms. According to Statista, the number of fintech startups worldwide grew to over 30,000 in 2023-double the figure from just five years prior. This explosive growth demands leaders who can blend financial acumen with tech-savviness and a knack for nimble decision-making.

Still, the leap from banking to fintech CFO is not a straight shot. The skills, mindset, and even the daily office rhythm can feel worlds apart. That’s why a step-by-step approach is most effective. Rather than a leap of faith, you build your bridge-one carefully considered move at a time. Each step, from recognizing your hidden strengths to networking with the right insiders, reinforces your readiness for the demands and opportunities ahead.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this guide:

  • How to pinpoint the skills you already have that fintech craves
  • Why hands-on fintech projects are a must-and how to get involved
  • The tech toolkit every future fintech CFO needs to master
  • Adapting to the culture shock of fast-paced, innovation-driven fintech firms
  • Building a network that works for you in this tech-forward sector
  • Crafting a fintech-friendly CV that gets noticed
  • The value of interim finance roles before aiming for CFO
  • How partnering with a specialist recruitment firm can fast-track your journey

Let’s break down these eight steps to help you forge your own path to the C-suite.

Step 1: Recognise and leverage your transferable skills

Start by mapping out what you already bring to the table. Banking professionals excel at risk management, regulatory compliance, and financial reporting. These are not just checkboxes for regulators-they are crucial for fintechs aiming to build credibility and scale responsibly.

For example, think of how your experience with know-your-customer (KYC) regulations or credit assessments could help a fintech startup avoid costly compliance missteps. Your deep understanding of financial controls and customer relationship management is pure gold for a company looking to grow fast without running afoul of the rules.

Take stock of your strengths and see them through a fintech lens. What’s obvious to you can be rare in a startup environment.

Step 2: Gain hands-on exposure to fintech projects

Textbooks and webinars will only take you so far. Real transformation happens when you dive into live fintech projects. Seek out opportunities within your current organization-many banks now pilot digital lending, payments, or AI-powered fraud detection initiatives. Volunteer to join cross-functional teams or propose a collaboration with a fintech partner.

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If internal options are limited, look for external gigs such as consulting on a fintech project, joining a hackathon, or enrolling in a startup accelerator as a mentor. The point is to move from theory to practice. For instance, HSBC’s digital innovation unit regularly invites employees from traditional departments to work on blockchain payment pilots. Such experiences can give you credibility and confidence as you make the switch.

Step 3: Upskill in the technologies fintech loves

Fintech is built on technology, not just spreadsheets. You’ll need to invest in learning tools and languages that might have been optional in your banking days.

Consider courses in Python, data analytics, machine learning, and blockchain fundamentals. Brush up on digital assets, smart contracts, and decentralised finance (DeFi) through platforms like Coursera or edX. According to Warner Scott, candidates who show fluency in these skills are much more attractive to fintech employers.

For example, Stripe CFO Dhivya Suryadevara combined her finance background with a deep understanding of payment infrastructure to lead the company’s rapid expansion. You want to be able to speak both finance and tech fluently.

Step 4: Prepare for a cultural shift

If you’re used to a strict hierarchy, formal dress codes, and years of “that’s how we’ve always done it,” fintech may surprise you. Many fintechs operate with flat structures, rapid decision cycles, and a hunger for experimentation. Meetings might happen over Slack rather than in boardrooms. Failure is seen as a learning opportunity, not a career-ending event.

To thrive, you’ll need to embrace agility, open communication, and an innovation-first mindset. Start following fintech thought leaders on LinkedIn and participate in online forums to get a feel for the culture.

An anecdote from a former Barclays executive who joined a fintech illustrates this well: “In my first week, I was shocked at how quickly ideas became prototypes-it took some adjustment, but I’ve never felt more energised by my work.”

Step 5: Build a strong professional network in fintech

Your existing network is valuable, but to break into fintech, you’ll need fresh connections. Attend fintech conferences, such as Money20/20 or Finovate, and join online communities like FinTech Connect.

Engage with people leading finance teams in fintechs-think of names like Jason Gardner (Marqeta) or Vasant Prabhu (Visa, formerly at PayPal). Industry networking is not just about swapping business cards. Real relationships can open doors to inside knowledge, job leads, and even future partnerships.

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Platforms like Cledara recommend reaching out to recruitment consultants who specialize in fintech and regularly engaging with founders and CFOs on social platforms.

Step 6: Optimise your CV for fintech

Your resume should not be a chronological list of duties. Instead, highlight achievements that show adaptability, cross-functional teamwork, and a track record of innovation. If you led a team through a major system upgrade or implemented cloud-based financial reporting, say so. Quantify your impact wherever possible.

Tailor your CV for each role. Use keywords from the fintech sector-terms like API integration, agile sprints, and compliance automation. Candidates with fintech-tailored resumes see a 30% higher interview callback rate.

If you need inspiration, review LinkedIn profiles of current fintech CFOs. See how they frame their experiences and follow suit.

Step 7: Consider interim finance roles before the big leap

CFO roles in fintech are fiercely competitive. Many successful CFOs first serve in interim finance positions such as VP of Finance, Head of FP&A, or even as a consultant. These roles offer you a real taste of fintech decision-making, product development cycles, and investor relations.

For example, before becoming CFO at Monzo, Alwyn Jones spent years in senior finance roles at different tech firms. Such a path gives you credibility, allows you to learn from mistakes at a smaller scale, and expands your influence within the company.

Being open to a stepwise ascent, rather than going straight to the top, can set you up for long-term success.

Step 8: Partner with a specialist recruitment firm

Navigating a career transition is easier with the right guide. Specialist recruitment firms that focus on fintech know what skills are most in demand and can match you with opportunities that fit your background and ambitions.

According to Jake Jorgovan, working with a recruiter who understands both banking and fintech can dramatically improve your job search efficiency. They can also provide insights about company culture and interview prep that you won’t get elsewhere.

Choose a recruiter who is embedded in your niche, whether that’s payments, lending, or digital banking. This insider edge can make a world of difference.

Key takeaways

  • Identify your strongest banking skills and show how they translate to fintech needs
  • Gain real-world fintech experience by joining projects and collaborating with startups
  • Invest in learning key technologies like Python, blockchain, and data analytics
  • Build a network of fintech insiders and recruiters to unlock hidden opportunities
  • Approach the transition in stages-interim roles prepare you for a CFO seat

Making the move from traditional banking to a fintech CFO role is not just about chasing the next big thing. It’s about reinventing yourself, becoming sharper, faster, and more adaptable, and adding new skills to your already valuable toolkit. Whether you are a risk manager with a knack for analytics or a seasoned controller ready to lead digital transformation, every step you take brings you closer to the future of finance.

So, as you look ahead, ask yourself: Which step will you take first to turn your ambition into your next big move?

FAQ: Transitioning from Traditional Banking to a Fintech CFO Role

Q: What transferable skills from banking are valuable in a fintech CFO role?
A: Skills such as risk management, regulatory compliance, credit assessment, financial reporting, and customer relationship management are highly valuable. Highlighting these competencies can help you bridge your experience into fintech, where they are applied to innovative, tech-driven business models.

Q: How can I gain relevant fintech experience before applying for a CFO position?
A: Seek out involvement in fintech projects within your current organisation or through external partnerships. Hands-on experience is essential, so aim to participate in digital transformation initiatives, pilot programs, or cross-functional teams focused on fintech solutions.

Q: What technical skills should I develop to succeed in fintech?
A: Enhance your skills in areas such as Python, machine learning, blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and digital payments. Consider enrolling in relevant courses and certifications to deepen your understanding of DeFi and compliance technologies, making you a stronger candidate for fintech roles.

Q: How should I adapt my CV for fintech CFO opportunities?
A: Tailor your CV to emphasise adaptability, innovation, and technological know-how. Highlight achievements that show leadership in digital transformation, cross-functional collaboration, and strategic decision-making. Use language and examples that resonate with fast-paced, agile environments.

Q: Is it necessary to take an interim role before becoming a fintech CFO?
A: While not mandatory, interim roles such as VP of Finance can be highly beneficial. They provide exposure to the unique dynamics of fintech and help you adjust to the sector’s culture before stepping into a top leadership position.

Q: How important is networking when transitioning into fintech?
A: Building a strong professional network in the fintech sector is critical. Attend industry events, join online fintech communities, and connect with peers and mentors. Networking can provide valuable insights, guidance, and direct access to new job opportunities.