Ideas are born quickly, but success comes to those who have the patience and will to develop them

Introduce yourself in a few words…

My name is Dean Todorov and I am the director for Bulgaria at iBanFirst – a company that facilitates the work of businesses that have dared to enter international markets. Since I was 24, I have been building the Bulgarian market for foreign companies in the international payments and currency risk management sector. Initially remotely, from London. Forbes recognized me in the selection “30 under 30”. Today I believe that technologies can make businesses bolder and more competitive on the global stage. However, human contact remains one of the most important in all business relationships.

How would you describe your career in a few words?

I would describe it as a combination of perseverance, curiosity, and principles. When almost no business in Bulgaria was using fintech services, I started to introduce a model that changed the way companies manage their international payments today. My curiosity gave me the strength to start, perseverance – to continue, and principles – to move forward.

What was the most important choice that shaped your path?

The most important choice was to return to Bulgaria. This allowed me to contribute even more to the development of the fintech sector in our country – with a team and in closer collaboration with companies. Every day we see how Bulgarian businesses prove that there are real opportunities for career and economic development on a global scale.

What would you have liked to know at the beginning of your career that no one told you?

That skepticism is the natural reaction to any innovation. At first, 99% of companies told me “no”. Gradually I realized that as long as you listen carefully and show a solution that truly meets the need, every “no” is just a stage of development.

How can a person understand which profession is suitable for them?

If you recharge from your work and on your day off you think with curiosity about your ideas, then you have found your place.

Which skills do you think will be key in the next 10 years?

Adaptability, analytical thinking, and technological literacy. The tools will change, but the ability to make informed decisions remains a human responsibility. Fintech is a vivid example of this interaction.

How to build a network of useful contacts without appearing interested?

There is nothing wrong with being interested. But it is important to start with giving. Networks are built on trust and mutual interest, not on exchanged business cards. I always first listen to the problems of the companies. When you understand what is said and offer the right solution, the contact happens naturally and builds trust.

What is the biggest mistake you have made in your career, and what did you learn from it?

Everyone makes mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them so that they become lessons. At first, I thought that the value of fintech is obvious. However, it was not for the clients. This taught me that communication is as important as the innovation itself. Without the right explanation, even the best solution can remain misunderstood.

How to recognize a toxic work environment and when is it time to leave?

When there is a lack of transparency, trust, and opportunities for development. Work takes up a huge part of our lives. If you do not feel valued and motivated, that is a sign to seek an environment where you can grow and give your best.

What would you do differently if you could start over?

I would start even before university with mentoring programs and conversations with professionals from different sectors. Sharing is the most sustainable way to develop and gain experience. Regarding my career choices, I stand behind each one of them and I am happy that I made them.

How to maintain our motivation in times of stagnation?

By reminding ourselves why we started. For me, it has always been the desire to improve the business environment in Bulgaria - a goal that never loses its meaning.

How to achieve a balance between professional and personal life?

Balance is dynamic. For me, it is important to be able to switch, i.e., to be dedicated at work, but also truly present outside of it. Only then can you be maximally fulfilled in both places.

When is it time to change our career, not just the job?

When even changing the team or company does not restore your interest. If curiosity has faded, it is time to find a new field for development.

If you had to give just one piece of advice to people seeking success, what would it be?

To be persistent. When I started with fintech services in Bulgaria, few companies believed in them. Ideas are born quickly, but success comes to those who have the patience and will to develop them.

What is your definition of a “successful career”?

To do something that brings you satisfaction and creates value for others. For me, it is to see how Bulgarian companies become bolder and more confident on the world stage.