Female Executive in Fintech Talks: Point Nine's Christina Barbash on How to Become An Effective Leader in Finance

They are nurturers, mentors, coaches, and leaders. No, we aren't talking about physicians, psychologists, or politicians — we are talking about women.

Although the majority of executives in leading organizations are men, especially in the finance industry, studies continuously prove that women are effective leaders. Over the last several years, studies have shown that there are not only more women in leadership positions, but in many of those cases, women leaders are more effective than men.

According to an article published by the Harvard Business Review, after analysing thousands of 360-degree assessments, women excelled in taking initiative, acting with resilience, practicing self-development, driving results, and displaying high integrity and honesty in their respective leadership positions.

Today, an increasing number of companies tend to have more gender diversity in leadership. Point Nine is one of those that has prestigious women leaders. Fazzaco has interviewed Christina Barbash, Business Development Manager at Point Nine on what it takes to become an effective leader in finance.

Fazzaco: Tell me something about yourself that's not on your resume.

Christina: I'm very family-oriented. My primary source of motivation is my son. I am also interested in psychology, reading books, and listening to lectures to help me understand new topics and remain up-to-date in the industry I work in. I also enjoy traveling to experience new cultures, new emotions, and make memories."

Fazzaco: What led you to your current profession?

Christina: I had been working in the Forex Industry for seven years. At that time, I had heard about the Fintech and Regtech industry and immediately became interested in it. It was at that time I decided to make a change and apply for a position at Point Nine."

Fazzaco: As a female leader, do you think it's a challenge to get into the predominantly-male finance industry?

Christina: Fintech is a male-dominated industry, so it's a challenge!" 

Fazzaco: What are your thoughts on where the industry is headed due to COVID?

Christina: COVID has forced all of us to adapt to a new way of life—and work. Additionally, the Fintech industry is among the many that had to adapt, specifically by expanding access to financial services. This adaptation is critical for reducing poverty and accelerating economic growth. The market needs Fintech companies more than ever!

Fazzaco: As a female leader, have you found any differences between male and female perspectives when making a strategic decision or a decision related to the profession?

Christina: In my experience women are more resilient, take initiative, and develop and motivate others better than men. On the other hand, men are better at strategy, take more risks, and are better team players. All of these factors impact the decision-making process of both men and women and correlate to the perspective of decision making.

Fazzaco: What is some career development advice you could give to others?

Christina: Adopt a 'never stop learning' mindset. Figure out what areas you need to improve. Become indispensable. Maintain a healthy work-life balance. Set goals and build a plan to achieve them. Develop trust. Expand your network. Build your reputation. And, perhaps most importantly, believe in yourself.

Fazzaco: Tell us your secrets for balancing work and personal life.

Christina: I am focused on quality instead of quantity. Being more efficient at work enables me to have more time for my son and myself. The same principle applies to spending time with my son. For example, rather than spending three hours and hardly paying attention to him, I prefer to spend two hours but be 100% focused on him.

Fazzaco: What do you want to achieve this year?

Christina: I want to grow and improve my personal brand in the Fintech industry.