Organized by the CEE Perspective Association with the support
of the National Bank of Romania.
The most important meeting place between regulator and
payment system participants, emerging technologies,
innovators and their beneficiaries.
The Forum aims to discuss the latest developments in payments
ecosystem regulation and best practices in the CEE region, with
a focus on MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) as well as
new DLT and Blockchain technologies.
The format of this Forum is a series of roundtables involving a
balanced group of speakers from the public authorities and the
financial industry, introduced and concluded by speeches.
Organized by the CEE Perspective Association with the support
of the National Bank of Romania.
The most important meeting place between regulator and
payment system participants, emerging technologies,
innovators and their beneficiaries.
The Forum aims to discuss the latest developments in payments
ecosystem regulation and best practices in the CEE region, with
a focus on MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) as well as
new DLT and Blockchain technologies.
The format of this Forum is a series of roundtables involving a
balanced group of speakers from the public authorities and the
financial industry, introduced and concluded by speeches.
Registrations NOW open
Join us for an unforgettable experience at the 3rd edition of CEE Perspective!
Agenda
Elena Ungureanu
VISA
Country Manager Romania
Elena Ungureanu has over 25 years of experience in the field of electronic payments. Throughout her career, she actively participated in the key moments marking the evolution of the cards market in Romania, from the launch of the first bank card to the latest payment technologies. Elena joined the Visa team in Romania in 2003 and is currently the Country Manager of the company. From this position, Elena is directly involved in the development and implementation of the company’s business plans and market strategies locally, being also responsible for coordinating operational activities related to payment technologies, as well as the relationship with partner banks and local merchants. Elena is a graduate of the Faculty of Economic Cybernetics, Statistics and Informatics within the Bucharest University of Economic Studies.
Elena Ungureanu
Country Manager Romania
VISA
Elena Ungureanu has over 25 years of experience in the field of electronic payments. Throughout her career, she actively participated in the key moments marking the evolution of the cards market in Romania, from the launch of the first bank card to the latest payment technologies. Elena joined the Visa team in Romania in 2003 and is currently the Country Manager of the company. From this position, Elena is directly involved in the development and implementation of the company’s business plans and market strategies locally, being also responsible for coordinating operational activities related to payment technologies, as well as the relationship with partner banks and local merchants. Elena is a graduate of the Faculty of Economic Cybernetics, Statistics and Informatics within the Bucharest University of Economic Studies.
Elena Ungureanu
VISA
Country Manager Romania
Gabriela Folcut
Romanian Banking Association (ARB)
Executive Director
Gabriela Folcuț, a graduate of the Faculty of Accounting within the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies and a widely recognized opinion leader in the field of economic journalism for over a decade, currently holds the position of Executive Director of the Romanian Banking Association (RBA).With over a decade of experience within the RBA, Gabriela Folcuț is responsible for the overall coordination of the Association's activities, implementing the RBA's Public Affairs Strategy and External Communication Strategy, and overseeing relations with internal and international stakeholders.
Gabriela Folcut
Executive Director
Romanian Banking Association (ARB)
Gabriela Folcuț, a graduate of the Faculty of Accounting within the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies and a widely recognized opinion leader in the field of economic journalism for over a decade, currently holds the position of Executive Director of the Romanian Banking Association (RBA).With over a decade of experience within the RBA, Gabriela Folcuț is responsible for the overall coordination of the Association's activities, implementing the RBA's Public Affairs Strategy and External Communication Strategy, and overseeing relations with internal and international stakeholders.
Gabriela Folcut
Romanian Banking Association (ARB)
Executive Director
Alexandru Dobrev
National Bank of Romania
Head of Financial Market Infrastructures Oversight Division
Head of financial market infrastructures oversight division – National Bank of Romania Head of service in the NBR, responsible for the regulation, supervision and monitoring of payment and settlement systems, as well as the participating banks. Member of the Cyber Resilience Task Force, which developed TIBER-EU and annexed documents. Participant in the Tiber Knowledge Center, a group that brings together the European authorities that have implemented TIBER. Member of the Payments and Securities Settlement Oversight Working Group, ECB. Member of the Market Infrastructures Expert Group, European Commission. Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the Protection of Critical National Infrastructures, supervised by the NBR. 19 years experience in BNR.
Alexandru Dobrev
Head of Financial Market Infrastructures Oversight Division
National Bank of Romania
Head of financial market infrastructures oversight division – National Bank of Romania Head of service in the NBR, responsible for the regulation, supervision and monitoring of payment and settlement systems, as well as the participating banks. Member of the Cyber Resilience Task Force, which developed TIBER-EU and annexed documents. Participant in the Tiber Knowledge Center, a group that brings together the European authorities that have implemented TIBER. Member of the Payments and Securities Settlement Oversight Working Group, ECB. Member of the Market Infrastructures Expert Group, European Commission. Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the Protection of Critical National Infrastructures, supervised by the NBR. 19 years experience in BNR.
Alexandru Dobrev
National Bank of Romania
Head of Financial Market Infrastructures Oversight Division
Head of financial market infrastructures oversight division – National Bank of Romania Head of service in the NBR, responsible for the regulation, supervision and monitoring of payment and settlement systems, as well as the participating banks. Member of the Cyber Resilience Task Force, which developed TIBER-EU and annexed documents. Participant in the Tiber Knowledge Center, a group that brings together the European authorities that have implemented TIBER. Member of the Payments and Securities Settlement Oversight Working Group, ECB. Member of the Market Infrastructures Expert Group, European Commission. Vice-Chairman of the Committee for the Protection of Critical National Infrastructures, supervised by the NBR. 19 years experience in BNR.
Alexandru Bița
Libra Internet Bank S.A.
Chief Technology Innovation Officer
Alexandru Bita, based in Bucharest, Romania, is currently a Chief Technology Innovation Officer at Libra Internet Bank, bringing experience from previous roles at Libra Internet Bank and LibraPay.ro. Alexandru Bita holds a 2022 - 2022 Executive Education in Oxford Executive Leadership Programme at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. With a robust skill set that includes Marketing Management, E Commerce, E Business, Banking, B2b and more, Alexandru Bita contributes valuable insights to the industry.
Alexandru Bița
Chief Technology Innovation Officer
Libra Internet Bank S.A.
Alexandru Bita, based in Bucharest, Romania, is currently a Chief Technology Innovation Officer at Libra Internet Bank, bringing experience from previous roles at Libra Internet Bank and LibraPay.ro. Alexandru Bita holds a 2022 - 2022 Executive Education in Oxford Executive Leadership Programme at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. With a robust skill set that includes Marketing Management, E Commerce, E Business, Banking, B2b and more, Alexandru Bita contributes valuable insights to the industry.
Alexandru Bița
Libra Internet Bank S.A.
Chief Technology Innovation Officer
Ana Ionascu
Microsoft
Account Director
Experienced Sales Executive with a demonstrated history of working in IT industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Business Planning, Sales, Business Development, and Marketing Strategy. Strong sales professional with a Bachelor of Science (BS) focused in Economics Engineering from Universitatea „Politehnica” din București.
Ana Ionascu
Account Director
Microsoft
Experienced Sales Executive with a demonstrated history of working in IT industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Business Planning, Sales, Business Development, and Marketing Strategy. Strong sales professional with a Bachelor of Science (BS) focused in Economics Engineering from Universitatea „Politehnica” din București.
Ana Ionascu
Microsoft
Account Director
Experienced Sales Executive with a demonstrated history of working in IT industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Business Planning, Sales, Business Development, and Marketing Strategy. Strong sales professional with a Bachelor of Science (BS) focused in Economics Engineering from Universitatea „Politehnica” din București.
Ana Maria Georgescu
Smart Fintech
Cofounder & Member Romanian Fintech Association
Experienced Delivery Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the computer software industry. Skilled in Requirements Analysis, ITIL, Entreprise Integration, IT Service Management, and Pre-sales.
Ana Maria Georgescu
Cofounder & Member Romanian Fintech Association
Smart Fintech
Experienced Delivery Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the computer software industry. Skilled in Requirements Analysis, ITIL, Entreprise Integration, IT Service Management, and Pre-sales.
Ana Maria Georgescu
Smart Fintech
Cofounder & Member Romanian Fintech Association
Anatolie Telchiji
UiPath
Sales Executive
Anatolie Telchiji, based in Romania, is currently a Sales Executive - EE at UiPath, bringing experience from previous roles at UiPath, PAC - A CXP Group Company, Microsoft and Oracle. Anatolie Telchiji holds a 2008 - 2013 Master's degree in Marketing - International Marketing at Academia de Studii Economice din București. With a robust skill set that includes Solution Selling, Account Management, CRM, Sales Process, Sales Operations and more, Anatolie Telchiji contributes valuable insights to the industry.
Anatolie Telchiji
Sales Executive
UiPath
Anatolie Telchiji, based in Romania, is currently a Sales Executive - EE at UiPath, bringing experience from previous roles at UiPath, PAC - A CXP Group Company, Microsoft and Oracle. Anatolie Telchiji holds a 2008 - 2013 Master's degree in Marketing - International Marketing at Academia de Studii Economice din București. With a robust skill set that includes Solution Selling, Account Management, CRM, Sales Process, Sales Operations and more, Anatolie Telchiji contributes valuable insights to the industry.
Anatolie Telchiji
UiPath
Sales Executive
Bogdan Năstase
Transfond
Advisor to the Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Currently, he serves as a Project Manager at Transfond, where he leads a working group focused on driving innovation in the payments domain. His primary responsibility involves exploring new avenues to foster the adoption of instant payments in the local market.
Previously, Năstase held the position of Project Manager at Transfond, where he played a pivotal role in delivering value to payments service providers through the Instant Payments project.
Prior to his tenure at Transfond, Năstase served as a Senior Business Analyst at the European Central Bank IntellActSoft. In this role, he was responsible for maintaining relationships with key stakeholders such as Banca d'Italia, Banco de Espana, Banque de France, and Bundesbank. He provided regular reports on system performance and conducted coordination activities to facilitate testing activities.
With over 12 years of experience at Transfond, Năstase also held the position of Advisor to the Deputy CEO. Additionally, he played a crucial role in formulating Transfond's strategic intent, conducting strategic planning, proposing business development strategies, and providing guidance to different departments.
Năstase's career journey also includes positions such as Business Developer, where he was accountable for SEPA Direct Debit development for the Romanian Banking Community.
Bogdan Năstase
Advisor to the Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Transfond
Currently, he serves as a Project Manager at Transfond, where he leads a working group focused on driving innovation in the payments domain. His primary responsibility involves exploring new avenues to foster the adoption of instant payments in the local market.
Previously, Năstase held the position of Project Manager at Transfond, where he played a pivotal role in delivering value to payments service providers through the Instant Payments project.
Prior to his tenure at Transfond, Năstase served as a Senior Business Analyst at the European Central Bank IntellActSoft. In this role, he was responsible for maintaining relationships with key stakeholders such as Banca d'Italia, Banco de Espana, Banque de France, and Bundesbank. He provided regular reports on system performance and conducted coordination activities to facilitate testing activities.
With over 12 years of experience at Transfond, Năstase also held the position of Advisor to the Deputy CEO. Additionally, he played a crucial role in formulating Transfond's strategic intent, conducting strategic planning, proposing business development strategies, and providing guidance to different departments.
Năstase's career journey also includes positions such as Business Developer, where he was accountable for SEPA Direct Debit development for the Romanian Banking Community.
Bogdan Năstase
Transfond
Advisor to the Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Currently, he serves as a Project Manager at Transfond, where he leads a working group focused on driving innovation in the payments domain. His primary responsibility involves exploring new avenues to foster the adoption of instant payments in the local market.
Previously, Năstase held the position of Project Manager at Transfond, where he played a pivotal role in delivering value to payments service providers through the Instant Payments project.
Prior to his tenure at Transfond, Năstase served as a Senior Business Analyst at the European Central Bank IntellActSoft. In this role, he was responsible for maintaining relationships with key stakeholders such as Banca d’Italia, Banco de Espana, Banque de France, and Bundesbank. He provided regular reports on system performance and conducted coordination activities to facilitate testing activities.
With over 12 years of experience at Transfond, Năstase also held the position of Advisor to the Deputy CEO. Additionally, he played a crucial role in formulating Transfond’s strategic intent, conducting strategic planning, proposing business development strategies, and providing guidance to different departments.
Năstase’s career journey also includes positions such as Business Developer, where he was accountable for SEPA Direct Debit development for the Romanian Banking Community.
Bogdan Pătru
Mastercard Romania & Croatia
Government Engagement Director
Bogdan Patru joined the Public Policy team in 2017, being responsible for coordinating for Mastercard Public Policy activities in Romania and Croatia (from 2020). In his work at Mastercard his main focus has been the reduction of shadow economy through electronic payments, promotion of financial inclusion and digitization both at national and local levels, enablement of smart city collaborations with local authorities, and public policy support for the topics of digital payments, anti-money laundering legislation and Digital ID.
Bogdan Pătru
Government Engagement Director
Mastercard Romania & Croatia
Bogdan Patru joined the Public Policy team in 2017, being responsible for coordinating for Mastercard Public Policy activities in Romania and Croatia (from 2020). In his work at Mastercard his main focus has been the reduction of shadow economy through electronic payments, promotion of financial inclusion and digitization both at national and local levels, enablement of smart city collaborations with local authorities, and public policy support for the topics of digital payments, anti-money laundering legislation and Digital ID.
Bogdan Pătru
Mastercard Romania & Croatia
Government Engagement Director
Claudiu Negrea
National Bank of Romania
Deputy Director of Financial Market Infrastructures and Payments Oversight Department
Claudiu Negrea serves as the Deputy Director of the Financial Market Infrastructures and Payments Oversight Department at the National Bank of Romania. In his 15 years at the central bank, he has been specializing in the monitoring of financial market infrastructures. Alongside his responsibilities at the bank, he is advancing his academic pursuit as a PhD candidate within the Romanian Academy, specializing in operational and security risks analysis. His deep understanding of financial infrastructures is crucial in his extensive work within the bank.
In his capacity as the coordinator of the Critical Infrastructures Protection Committee, Claudiu leads efforts to ensure the cooperation of all responsible parties for the protection of Romania's essential financial services against various risks and threats.
Claudiu Negrea
Deputy Director of Financial Market Infrastructures and Payments Oversight Department
National Bank of Romania
Claudiu Negrea serves as the Deputy Director of the Financial Market Infrastructures and Payments Oversight Department at the National Bank of Romania. In his 15 years at the central bank, he has been specializing in the monitoring of financial market infrastructures. Alongside his responsibilities at the bank, he is advancing his academic pursuit as a PhD candidate within the Romanian Academy, specializing in operational and security risks analysis. His deep understanding of financial infrastructures is crucial in his extensive work within the bank.
In his capacity as the coordinator of the Critical Infrastructures Protection Committee, Claudiu leads efforts to ensure the cooperation of all responsible parties for the protection of Romania's essential financial services against various risks and threats.
Claudiu Negrea
National Bank of Romania
Deputy Director of Financial Market Infrastructures and Payments Oversight Department
Claudiu Negrea serves as the Deputy Director of the Financial Market Infrastructures and Payments Oversight Department at the National Bank of Romania. In his 15 years at the central bank, he has been specializing in the monitoring of financial market infrastructures. Alongside his responsibilities at the bank, he is advancing his academic pursuit as a PhD candidate within the Romanian Academy, specializing in operational and security risks analysis. His deep understanding of financial infrastructures is crucial in his extensive work within the bank.
In his capacity as the coordinator of the Critical Infrastructures Protection Committee, Claudiu leads efforts to ensure the cooperation of all responsible parties for the protection of Romania’s essential financial services against various risks and threats.
Cosmin Curticăpean
iFactor
Executive Entrepreneur
Cosmin Curticapean is the Executive Entrepreneur of iFactor, the first official invoice trading and SME multi financing Platform in Romania with ambitious plans to expand in the CEE region. The company that aims to revolutionize the way businesses access their funds by providing efficient factoring solutions. With a team of experienced professionals in software, deep tech, finance, and legal domains, Curticapean strives to empower businesses and contribute to the overall growth of the economy.
As a Board member and Vice President at TechAngels Romania, he plays a crucial role in supporting and guiding the growth of innovative tech startups. Additionally, as a Board Member of the Romanian Fintech Association, Curticapean actively contributes to the development and advancement of the fintech industry in Romania.
Furthermore, as a Mentor at the Founder Institute, Curticapean shares his knowledge and insights with aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them refine their revenue models, develop growth strategies, and shape their overall business direction.
With over 27 years of experience, Curticapean is also a Co-Founder of Dox Group, a software development company that serves as a strategic offshore partner for global organizations. Dox Group specializes in developing complex applications across various domains, ranging from utilities to enterprise back-end structures.
Cosmin Curticăpean
Executive Entrepreneur
iFactor
Cosmin Curticapean is the Executive Entrepreneur of iFactor, the first official invoice trading and SME multi financing Platform in Romania with ambitious plans to expand in the CEE region. The company that aims to revolutionize the way businesses access their funds by providing efficient factoring solutions. With a team of experienced professionals in software, deep tech, finance, and legal domains, Curticapean strives to empower businesses and contribute to the overall growth of the economy.
As a Board member and Vice President at TechAngels Romania, he plays a crucial role in supporting and guiding the growth of innovative tech startups. Additionally, as a Board Member of the Romanian Fintech Association, Curticapean actively contributes to the development and advancement of the fintech industry in Romania.
Furthermore, as a Mentor at the Founder Institute, Curticapean shares his knowledge and insights with aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them refine their revenue models, develop growth strategies, and shape their overall business direction.
With over 27 years of experience, Curticapean is also a Co-Founder of Dox Group, a software development company that serves as a strategic offshore partner for global organizations. Dox Group specializes in developing complex applications across various domains, ranging from utilities to enterprise back-end structures.
Cosmin Curticăpean
iFactor
Executive Entrepreneur
Cosmin Curticapean is the Executive Entrepreneur of iFactor, the first official invoice trading and SME multi financing Platform in Romania with ambitious plans to expand in the CEE region. The company that aims to revolutionize the way businesses access their funds by providing efficient factoring solutions. With a team of experienced professionals in software, deep tech, finance, and legal domains, Curticapean strives to empower businesses and contribute to the overall growth of the economy.
As a Board member and Vice President at TechAngels Romania, he plays a crucial role in supporting and guiding the growth of innovative tech startups. Additionally, as a Board Member of the Romanian Fintech Association, Curticapean actively contributes to the development and advancement of the fintech industry in Romania.
Furthermore, as a Mentor at the Founder Institute, Curticapean shares his knowledge and insights with aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them refine their revenue models, develop growth strategies, and shape their overall business direction.
With over 27 years of experience, Curticapean is also a Co-Founder of Dox Group, a software development company that serves as a strategic offshore partner for global organizations. Dox Group specializes in developing complex applications across various domains, ranging from utilities to enterprise back-end structures.
Cosmin Tudor
HTSS
Engagement Director
With a solid background in digital transformation initiatives and a track record of successful achievements, Cosmin brings a wealth of experience in project management, performance management, sales and pre-sales.
Cosmin Tudor
Engagement Director
HTSS
With a solid background in digital transformation initiatives and a track record of successful achievements, Cosmin brings a wealth of experience in project management, performance management, sales and pre-sales.
Cosmin Tudor
HTSS
Engagement Director
Ph.D. Dan Costin Nitescu
National Bank of Romania
Senior Advisor to the Governor
Dan Costin Nițescu holds the position of Senior Advisor to the Governor of the National Bank of Romania and acts as a member of the Supervisory Board and chairperson of the Audit Committee of the Bank Deposit Guarantee Fund. Dan Costin is Professor in the Department of Money and Banking, within the Faculty of Finance and Banking, Bucharest University of Economic Studies. He holds a PhD. in Economics, specialization in Finance, a degree in Financial Management from Open University Business School, UK, is author of articles and books on finance and banking. His professional background includes various management positions both in the central bank and in commercial banks.
Throughout his career, he integrated and combined teaching and research activities with practical banking activity, where he coordinated financing transactions, structured banking products for a variety of projects and industries. His research interests include: management, risk management and corporate governance in banking, digitalization of financial services, Fintech and payment systems, sustainable banking.
Ph.D. Dan Costin Nitescu
Senior Advisor to the Governor
National Bank of Romania
Dan Costin Nițescu holds the position of Senior Advisor to the Governor of the National Bank of Romania and acts as a member of the Supervisory Board and chairperson of the Audit Committee of the Bank Deposit Guarantee Fund. Dan Costin is Professor in the Department of Money and Banking, within the Faculty of Finance and Banking, Bucharest University of Economic Studies. He holds a PhD. in Economics, specialization in Finance, a degree in Financial Management from Open University Business School, UK, is author of articles and books on finance and banking. His professional background includes various management positions both in the central bank and in commercial banks.
Throughout his career, he integrated and combined teaching and research activities with practical banking activity, where he coordinated financing transactions, structured banking products for a variety of projects and industries. His research interests include: management, risk management and corporate governance in banking, digitalization of financial services, Fintech and payment systems, sustainable banking.
Ph.D. Dan Costin Nitescu
National Bank of Romania
Senior Advisor to the Governor
Dan Costin Nițescu holds the position of Senior Advisor to the Governor of the National Bank of Romania and acts as a member of the Supervisory Board and chairperson of the Audit Committee of the Bank Deposit Guarantee Fund. Dan Costin is Professor in the Department of Money and Banking, within the Faculty of Finance and Banking, Bucharest University of Economic Studies. He holds a PhD. in Economics, specialization in Finance, a degree in Financial Management from Open University Business School, UK, is author of articles and books on finance and banking. His professional background includes various management positions both in the central bank and in commercial banks.
Throughout his career, he integrated and combined teaching and research activities with practical banking activity, where he coordinated financing transactions, structured banking products for a variety of projects and industries. His research interests include: management, risk management and corporate governance in banking, digitalization of financial services, Fintech and payment systems, sustainable banking.
Dana Dima
BCR
Executive Vice President Retail and Private Banking
Dana has an experience of over 24 years in Retail banking. She is member of the Management Board – Retail & Private Banking Executive Vice-president – for BCR Erste Group, Chairman of BCR Pensii SAFPP S.A. Supervisory Board, member of BCR Payments Services S.R.L. Board of Directors and member of the Credit Bureau of Romania Board of Directors. She believes in the power of innovation in banking as the main driver for evolution. She holds: a master’s degree obtained in 2003 at the National School for Postgraduates Studies, in partnership with « Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers », Paris, a master’s degree in economics at the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies (2003) and a license as a Diplomat Engineer at Politehnica University – Faculty of Automatics and Computer Sciences– Bucharest (1996).
Dana Dima
Executive Vice President Retail and Private Banking
BCR
Dana has an experience of over 24 years in Retail banking. She is member of the Management Board – Retail & Private Banking Executive Vice-president – for BCR Erste Group, Chairman of BCR Pensii SAFPP S.A. Supervisory Board, member of BCR Payments Services S.R.L. Board of Directors and member of the Credit Bureau of Romania Board of Directors. She believes in the power of innovation in banking as the main driver for evolution. She holds: a master’s degree obtained in 2003 at the National School for Postgraduates Studies, in partnership with « Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers », Paris, a master’s degree in economics at the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies (2003) and a license as a Diplomat Engineer at Politehnica University – Faculty of Automatics and Computer Sciences– Bucharest (1996).
Dana Dima
BCR
Executive Vice President Retail and Private Banking
Diederik Bruggink
ESBG
Head of Payments, Digital Finance and Innovation, European Savings and Retail Banking Group
Diederik Bruggink works at the European Savings and Retail Banking Group (ESBG) and at the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute where he is responsible for all payments topics worldwide. In that role, he analyses the multiple dimensions of the payments market, proposing and assisting in agreeing member positions with respect to their payments’ and related businesses. He is also advocates the associations’ positions on payments with policymakers, regulators, standardisation bodies, industry associations, and enabling a constant member dialogue on developments, with a particular focus on innovation. He is a Member of the Board of the European Payments Council and he is a member of the Commission’s Payments Systems Market Expert Group and the European Central Bank’s Market Advisory Group on the Digital Euro, to name a few.
Diederik Bruggink
Head of Payments, Digital Finance and Innovation, European Savings and Retail Banking Group
ESBG
Diederik Bruggink works at the European Savings and Retail Banking Group (ESBG) and at the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute where he is responsible for all payments topics worldwide. In that role, he analyses the multiple dimensions of the payments market, proposing and assisting in agreeing member positions with respect to their payments’ and related businesses. He is also advocates the associations’ positions on payments with policymakers, regulators, standardisation bodies, industry associations, and enabling a constant member dialogue on developments, with a particular focus on innovation. He is a Member of the Board of the European Payments Council and he is a member of the Commission’s Payments Systems Market Expert Group and the European Central Bank’s Market Advisory Group on the Digital Euro, to name a few.
Diederik Bruggink
ESBG
Head of Payments, Digital Finance and Innovation, European Savings and Retail Banking Group
Dorian Petrovici
Banca Transilvania
Coordinating Manager Retail Cards, Projects & Data Analysis
Dorian Petrovici, based in Cluj-Napoca, CJ, RO, is currently a Director, Head of Retail Projects and Data Analysis at Banca Transilvania, bringing experience from previous roles at Banca Transilvania. Dorian Petrovici holds a 1999 - 2004 Bachelor's degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering @ Technical University of Cluj-Napoca. With a robust skill set that includes Credit Cards, Financial Reporting, Financial Analysis, Banking, Project Management and more, Dorian Petrovici contributes valuable insights to the industry. Dorian Petrovici has 3 emails on RocketReach.
Dorian Petrovici
Coordinating Manager Retail Cards, Projects & Data Analysis
Banca Transilvania
Dorian Petrovici, based in Cluj-Napoca, CJ, RO, is currently a Director, Head of Retail Projects and Data Analysis at Banca Transilvania, bringing experience from previous roles at Banca Transilvania. Dorian Petrovici holds a 1999 - 2004 Bachelor's degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering @ Technical University of Cluj-Napoca. With a robust skill set that includes Credit Cards, Financial Reporting, Financial Analysis, Banking, Project Management and more, Dorian Petrovici contributes valuable insights to the industry. Dorian Petrovici has 3 emails on RocketReach.
Dorian Petrovici
Banca Transilvania
Coordinating Manager Retail Cards, Projects & Data Analysis
Ester Botica Alonso
European Banking Authority (EBA)
Policy Officer, Digital Finance Unit
Esther Botica Alonso, often referred to as Ester Botica Alonso, is a professional associated with the European Banking Authority (EBA). She was born in June 1984 and is a Spanish national residing in the United Kingdom. She holds a prominent role as a Project Officer at the EBA, where she contributes to various regulatory and supervisory frameworks aimed at maintaining financial stability within the European Union. Her contributions at the EBA involve intricate work on regulatory priorities and alignment with international standards such as the Basel III framework, which are crucial for the stability and integrity of financial institutions across Europe.
Ester Botica Alonso
Policy Officer, Digital Finance Unit
European Banking Authority (EBA)
Esther Botica Alonso, often referred to as Ester Botica Alonso, is a professional associated with the European Banking Authority (EBA). She was born in June 1984 and is a Spanish national residing in the United Kingdom. She holds a prominent role as a Project Officer at the EBA, where she contributes to various regulatory and supervisory frameworks aimed at maintaining financial stability within the European Union. Her contributions at the EBA involve intricate work on regulatory priorities and alignment with international standards such as the Basel III framework, which are crucial for the stability and integrity of financial institutions across Europe.
Ester Botica Alonso
European Banking Authority (EBA)
Policy Officer, Digital Finance Unit
Gabriel Tănase
KPMG Romania
Partner, Technology & Cyber Security
Gabriel Mihai Tănase, Partner, Technology & Cyber Security, manages KPMG’s tech and cyber security services, one of the most dynamic and complex fields in Romania. Gabriel has overseen projects in all industries, including in telecommunications and finance, for national and international companies and groups, as well as within KPMG in Romania as IT Director and coordinator for cyber security. Gabriel has several specialized certifications, including CISA. He is a member of ISACA, as well as holding other technical certifications for his area of expertise, and is one of the most qualified and experienced specialists in Romania.
Gabriel Tănase
Partner, Technology & Cyber Security
KPMG Romania
Gabriel Mihai Tănase, Partner, Technology & Cyber Security, manages KPMG’s tech and cyber security services, one of the most dynamic and complex fields in Romania. Gabriel has overseen projects in all industries, including in telecommunications and finance, for national and international companies and groups, as well as within KPMG in Romania as IT Director and coordinator for cyber security. Gabriel has several specialized certifications, including CISA. He is a member of ISACA, as well as holding other technical certifications for his area of expertise, and is one of the most qualified and experienced specialists in Romania.
Gabriel Tănase
KPMG Romania
Partner, Technology & Cyber Security
Jochen Metzger
NowCM
Global Head of Markets
Global Head of Markets at NowCM and CEO of NowCM France SA, combining 10 years of capital market experience with more than 20 years of experience in all matters of payments, clearing & settlement and banking operations at large, mixing the National, European and Global view; Policy and Strategy Advisor, Manager, former Senior Officer and retired President of the Regional Office in North Rhine-Westphalia at Deutsche Bundesbank.
Jochen Metzger
Global Head of Markets
NowCM
Global Head of Markets at NowCM and CEO of NowCM France SA, combining 10 years of capital market experience with more than 20 years of experience in all matters of payments, clearing & settlement and banking operations at large, mixing the National, European and Global view; Policy and Strategy Advisor, Manager, former Senior Officer and retired President of the Regional Office in North Rhine-Westphalia at Deutsche Bundesbank.
Jochen Metzger
NowCM
Global Head of Markets
Mariana Santos
DG FISMA, European Commission
Policy Officer-Retail Payments
Mariana Santos is a notable figure within the European Commission, specifically in the Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services, and Capital Markets Union (DG FISMA). DG FISMA is responsible for ensuring financial stability, protecting savers and investors, and fostering the EU's capital markets. While detailed personal information on Mariana Santos is limited, DG FISMA, where she operates, plays a crucial role in shaping EU financial policies. The directorate works on various significant initiatives, including the development of a Capital Markets Union, ensuring the integrity of financial markets, and enhancing financial stability across the EU. Mariana Santos is involved in the Climate Resilience Dialogue, a collaborative effort between DG CLIMA and DG FISMA. This dialogue aims to address the financial impacts of climate change and promote investment in climate adaptation strategies. It seeks to close the climate protection gap by engaging various stakeholders, including insurers, public authorities, and businesses, to develop solutions for mitigating climate-related financial risks.
Mariana Santos
Policy Officer-Retail Payments
DG FISMA, European Commission
Mariana Santos is a notable figure within the European Commission, specifically in the Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services, and Capital Markets Union (DG FISMA). DG FISMA is responsible for ensuring financial stability, protecting savers and investors, and fostering the EU's capital markets. While detailed personal information on Mariana Santos is limited, DG FISMA, where she operates, plays a crucial role in shaping EU financial policies. The directorate works on various significant initiatives, including the development of a Capital Markets Union, ensuring the integrity of financial markets, and enhancing financial stability across the EU. Mariana Santos is involved in the Climate Resilience Dialogue, a collaborative effort between DG CLIMA and DG FISMA. This dialogue aims to address the financial impacts of climate change and promote investment in climate adaptation strategies. It seeks to close the climate protection gap by engaging various stakeholders, including insurers, public authorities, and businesses, to develop solutions for mitigating climate-related financial risks.
Mariana Santos
DG FISMA, European Commission
Policy Officer-Retail Payments
Niklas Sandqvist
European Digital Finance Association
Co-Secretary General
Niklas had been working with innovation within the financial service industry for 25 years, and is currently VP Stakeholder Relations at Aera Payment & Identification AS. With the advent of PSD2 and its increased focus on innovation, new opportunities were created within digital finance. Aera was founded by tier-1 retailers set on leveraging this opportunity, and Niklas joined as one of Aera’s first team members. As a part of Aera, he co-founded Fintech Norway and is currently holding several positions in the retail- and fintech industry organisations across the continent. Long experience in working with a diversity of stakeholders gives Niklas a strong ability to cater for multi-stakeholder perspectives, and through this build trust and create engagement when breaking new ground through collaborative action.
Niklas Sandqvist
Co-Secretary General
European Digital Finance Association
Niklas had been working with innovation within the financial service industry for 25 years, and is currently VP Stakeholder Relations at Aera Payment & Identification AS. With the advent of PSD2 and its increased focus on innovation, new opportunities were created within digital finance. Aera was founded by tier-1 retailers set on leveraging this opportunity, and Niklas joined as one of Aera’s first team members. As a part of Aera, he co-founded Fintech Norway and is currently holding several positions in the retail- and fintech industry organisations across the continent. Long experience in working with a diversity of stakeholders gives Niklas a strong ability to cater for multi-stakeholder perspectives, and through this build trust and create engagement when breaking new ground through collaborative action.
Niklas Sandqvist
European Digital Finance Association
Co-Secretary General
Raluca Micu
National Bank of Romania
Head of Payments Oversight Division
Raluca Micu has 13 years of experience in the financial-banking field, since January 2010 being part of the BNR team. She currently leads the Payments Oversight Division.
She is also the representative of the National Bank of Romania at the meetings organized at the level of the Council of the European Union and the European Commission regarding European legislative projects in the field of payments (e.g. EU Regulation no. 751/2015 on multilateral interbank commissions applied to card-based payment operations, amending EU Regulation No. 924/2009 on cross-border payments, the Revised Payment Services Directive).
Raluca Micu
Head of Payments Oversight Division
National Bank of Romania
Raluca Micu has 13 years of experience in the financial-banking field, since January 2010 being part of the BNR team. She currently leads the Payments Oversight Division.
She is also the representative of the National Bank of Romania at the meetings organized at the level of the Council of the European Union and the European Commission regarding European legislative projects in the field of payments (e.g. EU Regulation no. 751/2015 on multilateral interbank commissions applied to card-based payment operations, amending EU Regulation No. 924/2009 on cross-border payments, the Revised Payment Services Directive).
Raluca Micu
National Bank of Romania
Head of Payments Oversight Division
Raluca Micu has 13 years of experience in the financial-banking field, since January 2010 being part of the BNR team. She currently leads the Payments Oversight Division.
She is also the representative of the National Bank of Romania at the meetings organized at the level of the Council of the European Union and the European Commission regarding European legislative projects in the field of payments (e.g. EU Regulation no. 751/2015 on multilateral interbank commissions applied to card-based payment operations, amending EU Regulation No. 924/2009 on cross-border payments, the Revised Payment Services Directive).
Răzvan Popescu
Elemental Solution Center
Fintech Startups Strategy Advisor
Intelligent automation evangelist with extensive experience in managing large automation programs for global clients. Razvan leads wavespace satellite Bucharest and is also the leader of the Intelligent automation Center of Excellence in Romania, he has been with EY for the past 12 years, right after earning a BSc in Computer Science from the Academy of Economic Studies.
Răzvan Popescu
Fintech Startups Strategy Advisor
Elemental Solution Center
Intelligent automation evangelist with extensive experience in managing large automation programs for global clients. Razvan leads wavespace satellite Bucharest and is also the leader of the Intelligent automation Center of Excellence in Romania, he has been with EY for the past 12 years, right after earning a BSc in Computer Science from the Academy of Economic Studies.
Răzvan Popescu
Elemental Solution Center
Fintech Startups Strategy Advisor
Șerban Raul
Orange Romania
Information Security Manager
Cybersecurity expert began his career as an engineer and was enriched by relevant certifications, a master's degree, and a doctorate in computer science, he has over 10 years of experience in cybersecurity and more than 20 years in IT. Experience in developing and implementing security strategies for various companies, holding diverse management roles in IT and cybersecurity, currently serving as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Orange Romania.
Șerban Raul
Information Security Manager
Orange Romania
Cybersecurity expert began his career as an engineer and was enriched by relevant certifications, a master's degree, and a doctorate in computer science, he has over 10 years of experience in cybersecurity and more than 20 years in IT. Experience in developing and implementing security strategies for various companies, holding diverse management roles in IT and cybersecurity, currently serving as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Orange Romania.
Șerban Raul
Orange Romania
Information Security Manager
Viorel Vasile
SALT Bank
Director Cards Management Division
Viorel Vasile, based in Romania, is currently a Director - Cards Management Division at Salt Bank, bringing experience from previous roles at Idea Bank, Alpha Bank Romania and BRD - Groupe Societe Generale. Viorel Vasile holds a 2022 - 2024 Executive MBA in Business Administration and Management, General @ ASEBUSS Business School. With a robust skill set that includes Banking, Business Planning, Negotiation, Management, Marketing Strategy and more, Viorel Vasile contributes valuable insights to the industry. Viorel Vasile has 3 emails on RocketReach.
Viorel Vasile
Director Cards Management Division
SALT Bank
Viorel Vasile, based in Romania, is currently a Director - Cards Management Division at Salt Bank, bringing experience from previous roles at Idea Bank, Alpha Bank Romania and BRD - Groupe Societe Generale. Viorel Vasile holds a 2022 - 2024 Executive MBA in Business Administration and Management, General @ ASEBUSS Business School. With a robust skill set that includes Banking, Business Planning, Negotiation, Management, Marketing Strategy and more, Viorel Vasile contributes valuable insights to the industry. Viorel Vasile has 3 emails on RocketReach.
Viorel Vasile
SALT Bank
Director Cards Management Division
Official Partners
Lead Partner
Support partners
Libra Bank is a prominent financial institution offering a range of banking and investment services. Renowned for its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, Libra Bank provides individuals and businesses with tailored financial solutions to meet their diverse needs. With a focus on innovation and reliability, Libra Bank stands as a trusted partner in the financial industry.
Envía IT is a software development company dedicated to providing intelligent technological solutions for various sectors. Our flagship product, Nudato, combines event management with CRM functionality, allowing businesses to efficiently manage events, contacts, and related data. We focus on innovation, technical excellence, and customer satisfaction, offering versatile and comprehensive solutions to address business challenges and drive success.
Orange Company is a multinational telecommunications corporation renowned for its innovative services and expansive global reach. With a focus on providing cutting-edge solutions in mobile, internet, and digital services, Orange Company continuously evolves to meet the dynamic needs of its customers worldwide.
In collaboration with
VISIBILITY
Put your organization at the forefront of leaders in the
payments industry through active participation in Forum
activities, and meetings and through the organization’s
outreach efforts.
INFLUENCE
Create opportunities for strategic conversations with an
elite group of European leading bankers, decision
makers and financial experts
NETWORKING
Build strong relationships with some of the most
influential financial institutions in the world.
BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY OUTREACH
Position your brand as a thought leader, solutions
provider or partner
ADVANCE KNOWLEDGE
Gain special insights from new and veteran leaders both
from the public and private sectors.
VENUE
National Bank of Romania Headquarters
Street Doamnei, 8
Bucharest, 030167
Romania
VENUE
National Bank of Romania Headquarters
Street Doamnei, 8
Bucharest, 030167
Romania
