International Women’s Day is a moment to recognise the progress women have made across industries, while also reflecting on the challenges that remain. In fintech and payments, change is happening, but meaningful progress comes from listening to the experiences of women shaping the industry from within.
At emerchantpay, we believe real insight comes from the people behind the technology. To mark International Women’s Day, we spoke with Polina Gargova, Head of Customer Success, about her journey in fintech, the realities women still face in payments and what the future should look like.
1. What has helped you progress in fintech so far?
Progressing in fintech has been driven largely by people and culture. What has helped me progress in fintech has been a combination of supportive managers and working in environments where learning and collaboration are valued.
Having leaders who trusted me with responsibility allowed me to develop confidence and grow quickly. I’ve also found that being curious, asking questions, understanding how different teams and processes connect and learning from both successes and setbacks, has been crucial.
Additionally, roles like customer success provide a unique perspective across the business, helping me understand both commercial goals and the real needs of our clients, which has been invaluable for making informed decisions and advancing into leadership positions.
2. What is one challenge women still face in the payments industry today?
One challenge women still face in the payments industry is visibility and representation, particularly in leadership and decision making roles.
Many women contribute significantly behind the scenes, in roles that are essential to the business, but their work and insights are not always recognised or amplified. This can affect career progression, confidence and the ability to influence key decisions.
Another challenge is access to mentorship and sponsorship opportunities, which are critical for guidance and professional growth. Addressing these gaps requires organisations to actively create environments where women’s voices are heard, contributions are acknowledged and opportunities for advancement are equitable.
3. What is one change you would like to see in fintech over the next five years?
Over the next five years, I would like to see fintech embrace leadership models that are genuinely inclusive at every level. This means actively valuing different perspectives, ways of communicating and approaches to problem solving and ensuring that these voices are represented in key decisions, strategy discussions and team dynamics.
When companies embed inclusion into their culture, it benefits the entire organisation: teams collaborate more effectively, solutions and products better reflect the needs of a diverse customer base and women have clearer pathways to grow into leadership roles, make meaningful contributions and have their expertiserecognised. Ultimately, inclusive leadership drives innovation, stronger performance and sustainable growth across the business.
4. What advice would you give to women entering the fintech industry today?
My advice to women entering fintech is to be confident in the value of your perspective and skills, even if you don’t meet every requirement right away. Take opportunities to learn across different areas of the business, ask questions and seek out mentors who can guide and support you.
Building a strong network and being willing to step into challenging roles will help you grow faster than waiting for the ‘perfect’ opportunity. Most importantly, remember that your insights and experiences are an asset, not just for your own career, but for the teams and products you help shape.
Celebrating women beyond one day
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate women in fintech, but it is also a reminder that progress depends on everyday actions, conversations and leadership choices.
At emerchantpay, we remain committed to supporting inclusive growth by listening to our people and creating space for diverse voices across the business.
If you want to work in an inclusive, forward thinking environment, take a look at our current career opportunities.
To learn more about how we support businesses with payments solutions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.