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, Maëlle Lafont de Sentenac, Group Head of Strategy and Global Alliances at Worldline, reveals why the emergence of Big Tech companies in the payments industry should be viewed from a ‘coopetition’ standpoint, and why developing innovations are fundamentally disrupting opportunities for the future.
Where did you go to university and what did you study? What impact did this have on your current journey?
I attended HEC Paris, where I studied management. The diverse curriculum covering finance, accounting, marketing, supply chain, and strategy provided me with a solid foundation. This broad knowledge allowed me to communicate effectively with various departments, which is incredibly valuable in my current role and helps me navigate the company more smoothly.
Were you part of any sports clubs or societies at university and has this influenced your educational and professional development?
I was part of the women’s rugby club at HEC. I loved the energy and team spirit it fostered. Rugby taught me the importance of commitment and encouraged me to explore different options and strategies. I appreciate how rugby promotes diverse profiles and strong teamwork, lessons that have definitely influenced my educational and professional development.
What was the first job you had in the industry and are there any lessons from this you still draw on?
My first job in the industry was an internship at PayPal in London, where I supported the product team building products for Small & Medium Businesses.
One key lesson I took away from this experience is the critical importance of user experience. In payments, things need to be seamless and straightforward — and that reliability is key, as any failures or complications can directly impact our customer’s bottom lines.
Who was your biggest role model – inside or outside of your industry – who continues to inspire you in your current career?
I wouldn’t say I have a single role model, but I’m truly inspired by both men and women who are deeply engaged in their work and willing to have an impact.
On a daily basis, I’m particularly motivated to exchange with people who are passionate about what they do while remaining kind and approachable. I believe that surrounding yourself with inspiring individuals has a powerful impact on your own journey.
When was your first big break in the industry? Why was this such a significant moment for you?
My first big break in the industry came while I was at Mastercard, where I helped a bank develop a new product that combined payments and loyalty. This project required me to dive deep into payment messages and understand the technical flows involved.
It was a significant moment for me because it gave me a comprehensive understanding of how payments work at a fundamental level, including the coding and protocols involved. I believe that having a strong grasp of the technical aspects is essential for success in the payment industry, and this experience has greatly enhanced my expertise.
Was there a moment you faced in the industry that really challenged you? How did you overcome this?
There are a lot of challenges within the payment industry. As a strategist, I have faced the rise of new players, and the concern going with it: when Apple launched its payment services in Europe; banks and traditional payment schemes were understandably concerned about their ambitions. However, it has evolved into a situation of “coopetition”, where collaboration is essential alongside competition.
We’re currently facing similar dynamics with major companies investing in stablecoins and blockchain technology. The potential for disruption here is significant, and while it will inevitably alter relationships between industry stakeholders, we should view these changes as opportunities to innovate and find ways to work together for mutual benefit.
What are some of the skills you deem essential to starting in your industry and how have yours developed over the years?
I believe that two essential skills for starting in the payments industry are curiosity and resilience. Curiosity is vital because this field is constantly evolving. Resilience is equally important since the industry can be tough and complex. It can take time to navigate through various concepts and challenges, so being able to push through and learn from setbacks is crucial.
Personally, I’ve developed these skills by participating in professional networks focused on payments. These forums allow me to learn about new topics and understand the challenges faced by other companies. Additionally, I make it a habit to read a few key publications each year and stay updated with industry news.
Lastly, what is some advice you would give to an aspiring person looking to get a start in your respective industry?
I would say, go for it! The payments industry is a fascinating and dynamic environment. Once in the industry, you will see payments everywhere, and you might even start conversations with merchants or taxi drivers about their payment experiences.
Additionally, this sector is at the forefront of innovation, encompassing technology, digital transformation, and data management. With so many companies and opportunities out there, there are exciting challenges to tackle. Embrace your curiosity for this field, and you’ll find a rewarding career ahead of you.
