Monika Liikamaa: A Visionary Leader in Fintech
Introduction to Monika Liikamaa
Monika Liikamaa stands out as a transformative figure in the fintech landscape. As the Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Enfuce, she embodies a fearless pursuit of client-focused excellence. With nearly 25 years of experience in banking and payments, Monika’s dynamic leadership and deep understanding of the payment ecosystem have positioned Enfuce as a leading partner in fintech, setting trends that others aspire to follow.
The Birth of Enfuce
Founded in 2016, Enfuce emerged from Monika’s vision to address the payment challenges that hindered growth for banks and fintech companies. Her strategic foresight has been instrumental in navigating successful funding rounds and expanding Enfuce’s services. Under her guidance, the company has evolved into one of Europe’s foremost cloud-powered fintech firms, forging key partnerships that enhance opportunities in embedded payments, digital finance, and scalable SaaS solutions.
Commitment to Ethical Values
Monika’s unwavering commitment to ethical values is evident in her drive for corporate and social responsibility within the fintech industry. She emphasizes the importance of environmental awareness and sustainability in Enfuce’s products and partnerships. This commitment not only enhances the company’s reputation but also sets a standard for others in the industry to follow.
Advocacy for Gender Equality
A passionate advocate for gender equality and diversity, Monika actively promotes these values within the fintech sector. She is a sought-after speaker at international events, discussing topics such as payments, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. Her efforts aim to inspire women to pursue careers in STEM fields, particularly in fintech, where representation remains a challenge.
Early Career and STEM Passion
Monika’s journey into the world of technology began at a young age, fueled by a fascination with its possibilities. Her career kicked off in 1998 as a consultant/developer for Capgemini, where she honed her skills in building critical systems. Over the years, she has launched several companies, including Proactum in 2006, and played a pivotal role in establishing S-Bank, a major Finnish retail bank.
Innovations in Fintech
One of Monika’s proudest achievements at Enfuce is the launch of the “First Aid” card, designed to assist aid organizations in distributing funds securely and efficiently. This innovative solution not only addresses immediate financial needs but also restores dignity to aid recipients, showcasing how modern payment solutions can enhance humanitarian efforts.
Navigating Challenges
Monika’s leadership has been tested through various challenges, including the delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic during Enfuce’s Series B funding round. Rather than viewing this setback as a hindrance, Monika and her team used the time to reassess their growth strategy, ultimately leading to a stronger valuation and a more sustainable growth trajectory.
Advice for Women in STEM
Monika encourages women interested in STEM fields to have the courage to pursue their passions. She emphasizes the importance of networking and supporting one another, believing that collaboration can lead to significant advancements in addressing global challenges. Her leadership style, shared with co-founder Denise Johansson, exemplifies the power of partnership in navigating the complexities of running a successful company.
Addressing Underrepresentation in STEM
Monika identifies the lack of female role models as a significant barrier to women’s representation in STEM. She actively encourages her daughters and young women to explore STEM subjects, believing that mothers play a crucial role in shaping future generations. At Enfuce, the commitment to diversity is reflected in the company’s workforce, which comprises over 20 nationalities.
Work-Life Balance Strategies
Balancing work and personal life is a priority for Monika. She credits her supportive network, including her co-CEO and long-term partner, for helping her navigate challenges. Open communication and the willingness to ask for help are key strategies she employs to maintain her well-being and effectiveness as a leader.
Leadership Values and Team Building
Monika believes that a company’s success is rooted in its people. At Enfuce, she fosters a culture of diversity and inclusion, encouraging team members from various backgrounds to contribute their unique perspectives. This commitment not only enriches the workplace but also drives innovation in the fintech sector.
Exciting Future Projects
Looking ahead, Monika is enthusiastic about several upcoming initiatives at Enfuce, including the collaboration with the State Treasury of Finland to deliver modern prepaid disbursement cards. These projects align with Enfuce’s mission to educate and empower financial institutions to transition to cloud-based embedded finance platforms, ultimately benefiting society and consumers.
Through her visionary leadership, Monika Liikamaa continues to shape the future of fintech, championing ethical practices, diversity, and innovation in a rapidly evolving industry.