At the grand age of 21, emerchantpay stands taller than ever and honours the incredible people who continue to drive our greatness and success. In Part One of our mini blog series, we introduced inspiring stories of employees who showcase that emerchantpay is a special and delightful place to work.
We conclude our series with the second article, where more colleagues from our global team share their most cherished emerchantpay highlights and memories. Step into the vibrant mosaic of our company's unique culture!
Unveiling the human side of Compliance and company is key for Yanitsa
In the fast-paced world of fintech, where innovation and disruption thrive, maintaining trust and upholding regulatory standards can be a complex and challenging task. At the heart of this delicate balance stands our Head of Legal and Compliance, Yanitsa Georgieva — a remarkable individual who personifies the human aspect of compliance at our fintech company.
Having spent her career in capital market financing while also in payments with emerchantpay for over seven years, Yanitsa attests to this by remarking:
‘Compliance is not just about following rules; it’s equally about safeguarding the trust and well-being of our colleagues and customers. It’s easy to get carried away and view a company as just a legal entity. But there’s more to emerchantpay than that – even though we’ve grown a great deal, it still feels very much like a family.’
For this reason, Yanitsa is committed to creating a warm and supportive workplace where personal relationships are valued while everyone feels seen, heard, and recognised. She counts many achievements to establish a solid Compliance department armed with a powerful team of specialists across the board. And still, she highlights that emerchantpay is for her a vibrant tapestry of unique human stories.
‘I believe in embracing the human side of compliance, where empathy, understanding and ethical decision-making form the cornerstone of our work,’ Yanitsa admits.
She continues by adding: ‘At emerchantpay, I have had the chance to sit down with members of management for five minutes before or after meetings, checking on how you are or how you feel. It fills you with a sense of comfort and belonging.’ We're with you on that, Yanitsa!
Forging global pathways: André’s journey in growing emerchantpay internationally
When it comes to international business, few possess the unique blend of expertise, cultural sensitivity, and a passion for forging global, multicultural relations like André Boesing, VP International Business Development at emerchantpay, does. André's journey to extend emerchantpay’s international reach has taken him across the borders of emerchantpay’s Brazil office. He started with developing the Asian region, and now continues to effectively build local operations and meaningful relationships with key stakeholders in Asia, Latin America and many more to come.
Digitalisation is a fundamental tool in the hands of financial services and payment partners. This is because, as André points out, it helps us streamline operations and transform cumbersome paperwork into speedy digital efficiencies.
‘With new technologies, our organisation doesn’t simply eliminate unnecessary complexities. Most importantly, we elevate the customer experience while pushing our organisation into a future of payments beyond geographical barriers,’ says André.
When asked what André’s favourite aspect of his role is, he sets travelling as the lifeblood of his career – a source of inspiration and connection. His numerous business trips spanning across Asia, LATAM and Europe are filled with rewarding and funny occurrences with teammates and his network of international contacts. Each journey has enriched his understanding of the global market, helping him embrace diversity and tailor our offering to the unique needs and characteristics of each region's culture, language, and regulations.
We take pride in André’s work which exemplifies the fusion of innovation, cross-cultural collaboration, and a strategic vision for growth in the ever-evolving world of fintech.
From scratch to success: Don’s pursuit in setting up emerchantpay in the US
We talked to Don Esposito, US General Manager at emerchantpay, as he gives us the specifics of his mission to build the company’s presence in North America from the ground up. Don embarked on a journey to redefine the company’s platform and product in the region just over a year ago. This included participation in new platform implementation, building out product and pricing strategies, relocating to a new facility, and expanding the local talent team to propel it forward.
Despite a number of unforeseen complications that Don calls to mind, he leverages his 30+ years of experience in payments, and the relationships he has established to make progress and materialise his vision. He also credits a large part of this exciting and positive atmosphere to the unwavering support the US team receives from our Senior Management team and all areas of operation. ‘It wasn’t as simple as 1, 2, 3, and the weight of the expectations I set for myself bore down on my shoulders,’ Don remarks.
‘But I refused to settle for anything less than meeting the long-term goals we have set, knowing how it’ll accelerate the company’s growth if we solidified our brand in the US. I’m grateful for my Senior Leadership, aka my safety net, who allowed me to apply new strategies until we get the desired results,’ Don confesses.
No doubt, the path Don treads is not an easy one. However, his relentless drive to maximise emerchantpay’s success is an inspiration for his team, who rallied around the cause.
Gergana’s story of passion, perseverance, and continuous growth
In the intricate world of fintech where experience and expertise cross paths, Gergana Staneva, Head of Operations PSP at emerchantpay, emerged as a brilliant newcomer 12 years ago. As she recalls: ‘Having no background in payments at the time, my journey at emerchantpay began with a leap of hope yet determination to conquer the unknown.’
Surrounded by professionals and high achievers in her team, Gergana seized the chance to learn from them and grow. Their wisdom became her guiding light, sparking in her enthusiasm to build and improve policies integral for her department while igniting an enthusiasm to get into fintech and keep up with its rapid advancements. These are, as she reveals, just a few of the many reasons she’s been with emerchantpay for so long.
In Gergana’s own words: ‘I was intrigued by how vast and fast-paced the fintech industry is. But I couldn’t have made it without the strong support system and the “family at work” I found here. They all fuel my progress in adding value to how I’m servicing our customers and making a difference.’
With each step, Gergana took up new challenging projects while honing her skills through extensive training and development courses provided by the company. Equipped with her acumen, knowledge, and experience, it was inevitable that Gergana would lead the account management team before evolving into Head of Operations. As she continues to tackle the complexities of her role with ease – from liaising with external stakeholders to optimising our processes among others – she proved time and again that she’s a true master of her craft.
When asked what advice she would give a person pursuing a career in her field, Gergana says:
‘To chase your dreams and persevere, even when daunting challenges come your way. It is through passion and devotion that one can illuminate the darkest corners and succeed.’
Chris counts the blessings of being part of an ever-growing fintech business
With his sharp business acumen and deep understanding of online payments, Chris Smart, SVP of Global Gambling and FX at emerchantpay, is the best person to guide us through our greatest wins. Over his six years of tenure at emerchantpay, Chris has seen our footprint spanning continents. As he admits: ‘In my 15 years’ experience in payments, I’ve never experienced excitement as big as with the opening of our London office.’
Another breakthrough that’s etched in Chris’ memory is the company’s rebrand, signalling a strategic shift in our brand identity to spotlight our values and vision. With stronger presence in the most prominent international industry events, we bolstered our position as an innovative industry force. There came bigger sales events, higher processing volumes and bigger deals: ‘We spent a year educating ourselves and listening to what our audience wanted from us. With the brand refresh, we got a stronger competitive edge to further enhance our products and payments portfolio.’
Yet Chris knows that the true strength of the company that sparks his passion lay in its people – each bringing their distinct perspectives and expertise to the table. Over the years, he notes an increased willingness to challenge the status quo and explore new territories for growth.
As Chris comments: ‘I cherish the opportunity to mentor and inspire his team, creating a work environment where all can be curious, thrive and achieve greater collective business victories.’
Over a decade of dedication: Kameliya’s enduring impact at emerchantpay
In the bustling realm of fintech, Kameliya Vasileva, Team Leader Project Management at emerchantpay, stands as a pillar within the company for nearly 12 years. ‘My adventures here are countless and the hats I’ve worn even more,’ she says. Kameliya’s journey started at Marketing to thriving in the Acquiring division before excelling in our Product Development team.
As Kameliya confesses: ‘we started with 30 people across three rooms. We were overseeing quite a lot and the pressure was high at times.’ She recalls an instance that convinced her she was where she needed to be. ‘It was a grand trade show I was assigned to organise not too long after I had joined the team’, she says. Although it was hosted in the US – a business hub of magnitude – her seniors reassured they had faith in her abilities for her professionalism and talents to shine through on an international stage, providing her with support whenever she needed it.
‘If this doesn’t prove how much of a supportive company culture we have who trusts its people, I don’t know what else is,’ Kameliya adds.
Kameliya worked tirelessly to orchestrate every single detail of the show – from locking the venue to tackling paperwork and preparing our stand. As Kameliya shares: ‘When the show started, I was thrilled to see our team connect and network with industry leaders at our company stand.’ Yet, our great performance at the show was all a result of her hard work and the dedication she poured into every aspect, which was later warmly applauded by the team.
‘After the show, I felt fulfilled that I contributed to the business’ growth and reputational clout. I knew that my voice was heard, and my ideas were considered. How great is that? This hands down counts as one of the reasons why I’ve been here for so long.’
Team building beyond the office: Anastas’ story of emerchantpay’s beach event
Anastas Tashev, Senior Product Owner at emerchantpay, remembers when our local Bulgaria team had a fun-filled outdoor activity by the seaside in August 2019.
‘The event was all about team bonding, giving out the face behind the corporate email signature,’ Anastas says.
The team stayed at a hotel resort and enjoyed beach games under the sunset amid delicious food and cocktails they had to prepare. ‘We formed groups to build DIY beach bars using whatever materials we had — from wood planks to cardboard — and taping everything without much success. But the bamboo fences we made on which we hung Hawaiian lei necklaces gave the charm of the tropics. It was fun and got us thinking logically and creatively,’ recalls Anastas. A drone was also flying over and filming the group tasks, capturing the team spirit and collaboration.
As Anastas says: ‘I had to team up with colleagues from other departments I wouldn’t normally do in the office, which brought a sense of connection and togetherness.’
If this wasn’t a team-building event that brought everyone closer, we don’t know what else is. Take a glimpse of our summer sea event below!
In the right place at the right time: Hristo’s journey at emerchantpay
Introducing Hristo Tanchev, Team Leader Integration Services at emerchantpay. Hristo’s journey with the organisation began when he joined us for two months as an intern off during his studies in computer science. Little did he know that he’d remain with us for eleven years, undertaking higher-level responsibilities and managing his own team. With his strong leadership skills and deep technical knowledge, Hristo supports talented developers and ambitious engineers. He guides them through complex projects, including audits among many, while delivering system optimisations and troubleshooting technical issues.
Beyond his day-to-day duties, Hristo advocates for a healthy work-life balance as the key for a thriving workspace.
As Hristo comments: ‘Happy employees are productive employees, so I make sure to promote positive and enjoyable moments at work.’
Alongside his professional duties, he encourages team-building and social activities to strengthen bonds between colleagues. An event that stayed with Hristo is when he and a bunch of teammates went go-karting. The team gathered at a nearby track dressed in their racing gear, ready to unleash their competitive spirits. ‘The thrill of the high-speed chases created unforgettable memories,’ he comments.
Hristo is a great example that being a successful team leader means adding fun and team bonding into the mix. With his infectious enthusiasm and drive to nurture professional and personal relationships, Hristo continues to leave a legacy at emerchantpay. More so, he inspires new joiners to seek joy while excelling in their work.
Running with heart: Anton’s experience at the Business Run
Anton Bashev, Team Leader Payments – Treasury at emerchantpay, is proud of being in a team passionate towards outdoor activities in the same way as sports is a lifestyle for him.
One of the sports events he recalls is Business Run. Our team in Bulgaria pulled on their running shoes and gathered at the Business Park Sofia to complete a 16km run for good cause. The event is a local charitable initiative that, as Anton reveals, our teammates were thrilled to support with a donation. Yet, it also gave us the opportunity to build on our team culture. We grouped up in teams of four and hit the road with other runners from 300 other companies. (Hint: One of our teams ranked 9th!).
As Anton shares: ‘We didn’t run with our legs; we ran with our hearts. We had the mindset of breath in, breath out, just put your feet one in front of the other and don’t stop.’
As Anton describes, the Business Run very much resembles the passion and sense of collaboration the emerchantpay people go by their days at work. None of the participants felt they had to compete for the win at the finish line. It was never about winning or losing. ‘Just as the four emerchantpay teams were cheering and high fiving each other to put more oomph in our steps during the race, so we support one another at work.’
All we can say is that teams that run together, stay together.
Exploring Malcolm’s adventures: A moving gesture from his team that testifies to our endearing team bonds
In our new office in Cape Town, a new chapter unravels for Malcolm Teare – Country Manager, South Africa at emerchantpay.
As he embarks on this exciting adventure of launching a new office and operations in a new location, Malcolm is trying to cultivate a culture that combines the productivity of an experienced team and the beauty of developing close ties with teammates.
As Malcolm states: ‘I believe in the power of people. That’s why I'm so passionate about recruiting great people and is why I invest so much time in screening every single application or CV that crossed my desk. I need colleagues who share the same passion, purpose, and vision.’
To this freedom, Malcolm couldn’t be more thankful for the organisation that has been by his side when bringing the Cape Town office to life. ‘From day one, I felt a sense of empowerment that I haven't always experienced with many other employers. I’m grateful for everyone in management who trusted me, giving me the opportunity to build something awesome in Cape Town, in line with our core values but with a little bit of local South African flair,’ he adds.
Malcolm’s people-first approach has laid the foundation for a close-knit group, as friendships started to blossom within his team. It was during one particularly heart-warming moment that his colleagues showed their appreciation for Malcolm's effective leadership. ‘My twin daughters have just been born, but the team decided to surprise me with a baby shower at the office a few weeks ago,’ he says. The moment Malcolm walked through the door, he was greeted with cheerful smiles, decorations, and the sound of laughter.
‘I was incredibly moved by their kindness. It reassured me that strong teams aren’t just about professional achievements but also about celebrating life's joys together.’ True that, Malcolm!
Celebrating the vibrant emerchantpay team and our everlasting sense of togetherness
In the heart of our ever-evolving organisation beats a dynamic community of people who cultivate a genuine sense of belonging within the workplace. emerchantpay works it magic and ensures that everyone is recognised for their unique contributions and creativity to achieve even greater feats. Together, we forge a tight-knit community fuelled by shared purpose and a drive to push boundaries and achieve greatness.
From the smallest gestures of kindness with baby showers to monumental achievements like trade shows in the US and new office openings, every effort is acknowledged and appreciated.
As we look ahead to the future, we are inspired by our colleagues’ stories, reminding us that it is the people behind the scenes who truly define emerchantpay. Together, we will continue to push boundaries, drive innovation and foster a culture that embraces the human aspect of our work, creating a brighter tomorrow for emerchantpay, our employees, and the communities we serve. Happy 21st birthday to us and here’s to many more years of success and growth!
Are you motivated by these impactful and powerful moments of our emerchantpay family? Take a glimpse at our open positions and join us today.