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, Julie Sutton, Head of Growth, Europe at Paymentology, talks on how she has drawn on the heroism of female leaders, not being afraid to challenge executives and has implored others to seek curiosity.
Where did you go to university and what did you study? What impact did this have on your current journey?
I didn’t go to university at the time, due to family reasons, but I was fortunate to be able to study alongside my early job roles. I chose to study Business, and looking back, it worked out really well because I could immediately apply what I was learning to real life situations at work.
The combination of study and hands-on experience gave me a very practical foundation and has shaped the way I approach my career ever since.
Were you part of any sports clubs or societies at university and has this influenced your educational and professional development?
I’ve always loved running and was fortunate to compete at county level while at school. Later, after my children were born, I took on a marathon, which was a real milestone for me. That competitive streak has definitely influenced my professional life too.
Running has taught me the value of endurance, setting goals, and pushing through challenges, qualities that are vital in a fast-moving industry like fintech. Staying active also helps me keep balance and perspective alongside a demanding career.
What was the first job you had in the industry and are there any lessons from this you still draw on?
My first role was as a Commercial Account Manager, right on the front line with customers. That experience has been invaluable. Now that I lead Sales and Account Management teams, I can empathise with the challenges my teams face because I’ve been there myself. That grounding keeps me focused on what truly matters to clients, solving their problems and building lasting relationships.
Who was your biggest role model – inside or outside of your industry – who continues to inspire you in your current career?
When I first started in the industry, women were few and far between, let alone in leadership positions. I’ve always been inspired by people who push boundaries and lead with resilience.
A role model for me has been Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses’ manager, who has transformed women’s football through her leadership, focus, and ability to get the very best out of her team. Her calm authority, strategic mindset, and humility are qualities that continue to inspire how I approach leadership in my own career.
When was your first big break in the industry? Why was this such a significant moment for you?
My first big break came when I took a risk and told my Managing Director everything I felt wasn’t working in the department. Instead of dismissing me, he challenged me to create a plan and gave me the backing to put it into action. That moment was transformative for me.
It taught me the power of constructive honesty, the importance of taking ownership, and it gave me the confidence to lead real change. For me, it was the experience that was pivotal on my path to true leadership.
Was there a moment you faced in the industry that really challenged you? How did you overcome this?
One of the most challenging moments I faced was working in an organisation where the cultural fit wasn’t right for me. It was a difficult realisation, and not a decision I took lightly, but I found myself trying to conform in ways that left me deeply unhappy.
In the end, I recognised that sometimes the bravest choice is admitting you’ve walked through the wrong door and having the courage to walk back out again. That experience taught me the importance of staying true to my values and seeking environments where I can genuinely thrive.
What are some of the skills you deem essential to starting in your industry and how have yours developed over the years?
For anyone starting in this industry, I think curiosity is essential. Having the drive to ask questions and really understand how things work. Alongside that, listening is hugely important, because so much of what we do is about understanding client needs and reading between the lines.
Early on, I also learned the importance of multi-tasking, but over time I’ve balanced that with giving myself space to think. One of the biggest skills I’ve developed is knowing when a situation calls for a fast decision and when it’s worth slowing down to take a more considered approach.
Lastly, what is some advice you would give to an aspiring person looking to get a start in your respective industry?
I think a passion for innovation and positive change is key. This is a fast-moving industry and being part of a service that impacts people’s lives every day is hugely rewarding. I would also say bring curiosity and a willingness to learn, because payments and fintech never stand still.
Resilience and adaptability will carry you far, as will the ability to build strong relationships and collaborate across different stakeholders. Above all, keep the customer at the centre of everything you do. If you can solve real problems for them, you’ll always add value.
