FinTech Wales has named Sarah Jones as its new CEO, replacing Sarah Kocianski after she left over the summer.
The appointment was revealed at the organisation’s 100th event – Celebrating Our Community in Cardiff on Friday, with more than 100 attendees joining the milestone gathering.
In recent months, the membership body has strengthened through a series of new initiatives and partnerships, including welcoming Mastercard as its latest partner in August.
Jones joined the organisation in 2022 as head of marketing before becoming CMO.
With more than 20 years’ experience in senior marketing roles across industries including finance, tech, IT, legal, HR, healthcare and education, she has regularly championed Wales as a hub for innovation.
Her career began as a PR administrator at Harrison Cowley and she went on to serve as marketing assistant at Julian Hodge Bank in 2004.
She then spent over 14 years at Acorn Recruitment, culminating in a five-year stint as head of marketing.
During her career, Jones has also contributed to wider professional and educational communities.
In 2011, she joined the Young Enterprise Wales Board (Cardiff & Vale) and from 2017 to 2020, she chaired the marketing and communications group of the National Training Federation for Wales.
In 2020, she took on a senior strategic role as marketing director and group head of marketing and communications at New Directions, before joining FinTech Wales two years later.
“It’s a privilege to step into the role of CEO of FinTech Wales and lead such a dynamic, ambitious community,” said Jones.
“FinTech Wales has already achieved so much in strengthening the ecosystem and I’m excited to build on that foundation.
“My focus will be on supporting our members, championing innovation and ensuring Wales is recognised globally as a thriving hub for financial technology.”
Sarah Williams-Gardener, chair of FinTech Wales, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Sarah as CEO of FinTech Wales.
“Having been part of the FinTech Wales journey for several years, she understands our ecosystem and community inside out, which makes her uniquely placed to take us forward.
“Sarah has also been recognised across the ecosystem for her tireless work in championing Welsh FinTechs, and I know she will bring that same energy and commitment into this new role.
“Her passion, vision and dedication will be instrumental as we continue to grow the sector, create opportunities for our members, and establish Wales as a leader in the global FinTech landscape.”