Parents in the Fintech Sector: The Mission is Possible with Flexibility and Support

Svetlana, to start, could you tell us a little more about yourself – who is Svetlana outside of the professional profile on LinkedIn and what are your main roles at Paysafe and at home?

 

It's a difficult question for someone with many interests outside the professional sphere. I would say that I am a traveler, an explorer, a seeker of new experiences, and a person who deeply values spirituality and my inner world. If I have free time, I would 'hide' in the depths of an interesting book or contemplate nature. I am a big fan of MINI cars, and you can always hear Strauss or Beethoven in my car. I love classical music and opera. But at this stage of my life, my priority is my two children, who are entering their teenage years, and home is very fun – new interests, courage, opinions, and of course, challenges that every parent faces. My children are always with me, and there is rarely a trip without them. At Paysafe, I also have two roles - in the professional sphere, I deal with compliance and regulations for the company's individual clients, and additionally, I am the Chair of the Employee Organization Women@Paysafe for Bulgaria, which works for the integration and career development of women at Paysafe and supports all initiatives related to diversity and inclusion on a global scale.    

 

The fintech sector is often associated with high intensity and fast pace. Do you remember a specific moment ('Aha! moment') when you realized that at Paysafe, you don't have to choose between your career and being a fulfilling parent?

The truth is that the industry is dynamic, with many challenges and constant innovations, but the fine balance between work done and personal life should be a priority for every woman, not just in our industry. With the many roles that a Bulgarian woman can take on (as is often said), it is important to consider her priorities. At one moment, career will be the priority, at another moment it will be the children, but doing everything at once is very exhausting, at least in my opinion. And at Paysafe, such a balance is achievable - the option to work from home 2 days a week is a big plus, as well as the reduced working hours every Friday during the summer season.

 

The word 'flexibility' is often used as a cliché, but what does it mean 'translated' into the daily life of a mother in your company?

For me, it means being able to choose your working hours during the day, having the option to request a 4- or 6-hour workday if needed, and during vacations or when necessary, having mobility, i.e., being able to work remotely. I believe that work and personal life can largely coexist when there is this 'flexibility' and trust from the company towards its employees. I think the times when working or attendance hours were counted are long gone.

Photo: Personal Archive 

Many parents feel anxious when returning from maternity leave. How did Paysafe 'embrace' your return and what are those small gestures or policies that made you feel confident from day one?

I joined Paysafe when my children were very small. They are one year apart, and the commitment during this period of their growth is very significant for every parent. I was fortunate to be part of a wonderful team that warmly welcomed me, and we quickly established good synchronization and communication. In such a situation, it is important not only for the direct manager but also for the other team members to show understanding and acceptance if the parent needs to 'step out' of work or if a personal emergency arises. 

 

They say that parenting develops unexpected 'superpowers' – from time management to negotiation. What skill acquired at home with your children do you apply most successfully in managing fintech projects or in your work with people?

I believe that one extremely important skill is emotional maturity. This does not depend on age. My children 'led' me down this path, and I see the benefits not only at home but also in communication in the office and during stressful projects. Parenting develops an exceptional ability for multitasking and effective time management. It is true that a woman can drive while putting on makeup, checking her meetings/tasks for the day on her phone, and handing water to the back seat, but overall, I do not recommend multitasking either at work or at home – focus on the present.

 

If you had to point out one specific initiative of your company in support of families (for example, additional days off, psychological support, or events for children), what is your favorite and why?

I like the children's workshops in the office for celebrating Children's Day, as well as the Christmas parties for the little ones. These initiatives bring together not only the children but also us, colleagues from different departments, and we can see each other in a different light. The conversations revolve around parenting topics, and we realize how similar and connected we actually are.

 

What would you say to those parents who are currently afraid to apply for a job at a large international company due to their commitments to family? Is 'happiness at 5:00 PM' possible in the fintech industry?

Everything is possible if they are clear about what exactly they want at that moment and what they are willing to compromise on. It is simply a matter of values and priorities that can change at every stage of life. And as for fear, I wouldn't say there is room for it.