Payment Expert’s ID Check: Payments Professionals offers insight from industry leaders and experts on how they got their start in the financial industry, from their early years in education, to how they have been able to climb the corporate ladder.
This week, Florian Risch, Associate Director of Sales at PAYONE, speaks on how working in outside industries helped him within the world of payments, sticking by a motto of “what goes around, comes around”.
Where did you go to university and what did you study? What impact did this have on your current journey?
I first studied at Frankfurt University and undertook a Bachelor in Economics. I continued my studies with a Masters in Luxury & Fashion Management in Sophia Antipolis in the South of France.
From my studies, I discovered that I could combine my personal interest in fashion with my professional life, which has led me to managing relationships with some of the biggest fashion retailers in Europe.
Were you part of any sports clubs or societies at university and has this influenced your educational and professional development?
During my time at university, I played football, and continue to do so to this day. Football has definitely helped my professional development, as it’s a clear demonstration of the need to work together. Collaborating with a team of like minded people is exciting, and we enjoy the successes and setbacks together.
Did you have any jobs outside of the industry before making your start in it and was this experience a motivation to get into the industry you aspired to be in?
Prior to joining Worldline, I gained experience working in the tobacco industry where I realised the significance of aligning with the products and values of the industry I am a part of.
This experience served as a pivotal motivation for me to transition into the payments industry, as my passion for technology and alignment with the ethos of payments far outweighed my connection to the tobacco sector. It also reinforced my belief in the importance of being closely connected to the industry I work in and of it resonating with me on a personal level.
What was the first job you had in the industry and are there any lessons from this you still draw on?
I began my career as a sales assistant for a fashion retailer. The invaluable lessons I learned from this experience were the significance of kindness and hard work. The philosophy of “what goes around, comes around” has stuck with me to this day and has shaped my approach when interacting with colleagues and clients.
Who was your biggest role model outside of the payments industry who continues to inspire you in your current career?
My biggest role model outside of the payments industry who continues to inspire me in my current career is my grandfather. His embodiment of discipline and respect serve as a timeless source of inspiration for me.
I strive to emulate his principles in my work, fostering a sense of integrity and professionalism that guides my actions each day.
When was your first big break in the payments industry? Why was this such a significant moment for you?
My first big break came when I joined Worldline. This opportunity represented a significant milestone for me as it opened doors to a reputable company known for innovation and excellence in the payments sector.
Joining Worldline was a leap forward in my career, providing a platform to further develop my skills and help make a meaningful impact in the industry.
Was there a moment you faced in the industry that really challenged you? How did you overcome this?
The COVID-19 pandemic was an incredibly challenging period, presenting not only the issue of personal isolation but also significant uncertainty for us as an organisation. We faced tough questions about how consumer behaviour would be affected, which elements would survive, and what the future held for our company.
Despite these hurdles, we ultimately achieved success. I believe this was due to adopting a positive mindset, seeing each challenge and obstacle as an opportunity for something new and beneficial. This approach enabled us to adapt and thrive in uncertain and unprecedented times.
Lastly, what is some advice you would give to an aspiring person looking to get a start in your respective industry?
If you’re drawn to a complex, demanding, and ever-evolving industry with a significant impact on everyday life and society, then payments could be the right field for you.
My advice is to be creative, resilient, and, above all, attentive. Embrace these qualities, and you will find success in this dynamic industry.
