We’re pleased to present our latest installment in our feature series – “FintekNews Celebrates #WomenInFintech“. This week, we’d like to introduce you to Linda Ding, Director of Strategic Marketing for Laserfiche, a leading workflow automation and document management platform, leveraging advanced technologies to automate and accelerate a wide variety of business processes, from new account opening to back-office operations.
NAME: Linda Ding
TITLE:
Director of Strategic MarketingCOMPANY:
LaserficheWEB ADDRESS:
www.Laserfiche.com1)
What does your financial technology firm offer?
Laserfiche is a fintech platform that offers workflow automation and document management, enabling financial firms to streamline complex processes (e.g. new client onboarding) and to optimize operations. The end-to-end workflow automation solutions cut down on paper, integrate with multiple applications, and provide predictive analysis and intelligent reporting.
2) What was the personal motivation for you to join your firm?
12 years ago when I first met the founder of Laserfiche, I was immensely impressed by her innovative mind and dogged spirit. Nien-Ling Wacker built an empire with her bare hands, and based on a laser-focused vision. I joined the company so that I could learn from the best, and I still consider it among the best decisions I ever made.
3) As a business leader, do you feel any advantages/disadvantages in being female as you are 1) managing your business & team internally and 2) growing your business competitively?
As a female leader, I feel I have a unique set of “ammunition” in my management tool box. My “female” instinct and sympathetic nature helps me connect well with teams and clients on a personal and emotional level, which often leads to a trusting and long-lasting relationship.
4) Do you feel you are at a competitive advantage – or disadvantage – as a female fintech business leader– or neither?
Early in my career, I felt a need to constantly prove my ability and credibility in the industry. I’m not sure whether that was because of my gender or simply my lack of experience. Today’s “Lean In” movement makes being female a huge asset. Many fintech institutions are providing significant opportunities and programs to female employees. Promoting female leaders’ successes is a must-have strategy for many firms, and I’m pleased to say that Laserfiche is a great champion of female leadership – women account for nearly 50 percent of the total workforce, and more than 50 percent of the company’s director-level positions are held by women.
5) Do you feel there are more women in financial technology leadership roles than in other business sectors? If so, why or why not?
Compared to other sectors within the financial services industry, such as investment banking and stockbroking, there do appear to be more women in leadership roles in financial technology. However, if we compare the percentage of female leaders in fintech with those of other sectors – e.g. healthcare, social services and education – it becomes apparently that our industry is lagging behind.
6) Do you think the trend will continue where we will see more women in leadership roles in fintechs (Yes/No) and why?
I attend, on average, 20-25 industry events a year and, in the last couple of years, I have definitely noticed a growing number of female representatives in the fintech world. They’re easy to spot due to still being in the minority.
As director of strategic marketing at Laserfiche, Linda Ding leads the market and product development for the financial services vertical. She’s a frequent speaker at wealth management industry events, addressing topics such as workflow automation, digital records management, and compliance with regulatory requirements.