Join us as we share the last instalment of our ‘In conversation with’ series. This time, we’re picking the brain of sales extraordinaire, Suzanne Abbink, who’s our SVP Business Development and is based in our Amsterdam office.
Suzanne’s yet another driver of emerchantpay’s growth. Through her passion and commitment towards the partnerships she forms, Suzanne cultivates sustained bonds with our clientele based on trust and mutual success.
In the following Q&A, Suzanne walks us through her journey from Junior to Senior roles, while she uncovers the secret behind her team’s goal-crushing sales strategies and how she keeps that work-life balance just right. Let’s dive into it.
Can you tell us about your journey at emerchantpay?
I joined emerchantpay over eight years ago, initially as a Junior Business Development Manager at the Netherlands office. I came onboard with over a decade of sales experience across various fintech positions, specifically in the realm of cross-border payments.
Since the moment I stepped foot in the office, I’ve had the chance to contribute to many innovative and challenging projects that have allowed me to adapt and build my skills in business development. I’ve also had the opportunity to wear a few different hats, prior to advancing into a senior role at emerchantpay. After starting out as a Junior Business Development Manager, I later moved into a Relationship Manager role, before becoming emerchantpay’s SVP Business Development. All roles have equipped me with the knowledge and tools to better understand our customer needs and transition into my position today.
How would you describe your role as SVP Business Development?
I see business development as a necessity for our growth trajectory, expansion into new markets and how we nurture lasting relationships with clients. My role encompasses many activities, which all aim to maximise profitability, build strategic partnerships and facilitate the company’s success.
Another significant part of my job is not only to acquire clients via networking and outreach but also to develop meaningful relationships with them. This entails active listening and the ability to craft holistic, bespoke solutions that genuinely make a positive impact on their business operations.
What would you say is the most exciting part of your job?
Seeing my colleagues thrive within their roles is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. I’ve observed people from my team joining at junior positions and growing at great speed to take on bigger projects. They now have the expertise and knowledge to tailor innovative products to specific client needs and close huge deals with high end merchants. Leading a sales team in a highly competitive sector can be challenging at times. However, it’s fulfilling to have a group of salespeople that are passionate about engaging with new clients and industry leaders and seeing those connections flourish into fruitful partnerships that influence emerchantpay’s success.
What three words would you use to describe emerchantpay?
I’d say “responsible,” as we take our roles seriously and are committed to delivering a high standard of work. Secondly, “trustworthy,” in the sense that clients and employees alike have confidence and trust in the organisation. I’d add “supportive,” as I feel that emerchantpay allows me to be myself, while being effective at work and abiding by the internal rules and policies.
Sales is a competitive field. How do you keep your team inspired and motivated to reach new heights in their performance?
Setting clear and realistic goals sits at the heart of our Sales team. When my team has a clear roadmap to success, it both motivates them and ensures that we meet and deliver on client expectations. Tailoring our solutions to fulfil the unique needs of our target market makes us stand out and resonate with our clientele. This serves as a driving force, igniting my team’s determination to excel and achieve remarkable results.
What personal qualities or skills have been instrumental in your success?
My commitment to consistent learning and foresight helps me promote our offering more efficiently and offer clients the solutions they need now and in the future. Every interaction, negotiation and collaboration has come from a deep understanding of our clients’ business requirements for both the short-term and long-term. This has helped foster trust and facilitate lasting relationships that are mutually beneficial for our Dutch team and the overall organisation.
How are you balancing your professional life with additional at-home and personal responsibilities?
At emerchantpay, we acknowledge that life has its demands, whether it’s attending to family matters like picking up our kids from school or other personal commitments, and we support each other. The hybrid structure of our work environment allows our team to approach tasks with enthusiasm and dedication, while letting us embrace life’s curveballs and finding time for ourselves.
Do you have any advice for people wanting to pursue a sales career within fintech?
Knowledge is your compass. Understand the company you work at from the inside out and keep up with the future moves of your industry. Look for mentors who can help you navigate through the nuances and help you craft your sales approach in the most effective way possible. Most crucially, don’t hesitate to ask questions – it's a vital step in learning and moving forward!
Suzanne’s story – fuelling growth through tailored sales strategies while motivating her team to thrive
Suzanne’s a catalyst for emerchantpay’s ongoing success. Through her commitment and fervour for building meaningful partnerships, Suzanne establishes enduring relationships anchored in trust and shared achievements. These traits inspire her team in the Netherlands to take their career at emerchantpay to the next level and inspire the organisation to make strides forward in the fintech landscape.
Did Suzanne’s experience inspire you to become a member of our emerchantpay family? Explore our open roles and join our vibrant team today!