ACCESS FINANCE - Key Persons
Bogdan Dobre's career in finance is marked by a series of strategic leadership roles, demonstrating his ability to drive companies towards profitability and innovation. As the current CEO of AXI Finance IFN SA since January 2022, he has successfully implemented key business initiatives and fostered a positive work culture. Previously, he showcased his versatility by setting up a subscription car rental business in 2021.
His notable tenure as CEO of Garanti Consumer Finance from 2008 to 2021 involved transforming the company's business model and achieving an impressive 138 months of continuous profit. Before this, he served as Deputy CEO at Citifinancial Romania, where he successfully turned the business to profit in 2007.
Bogdan's earlier career included various roles at Citi in multiple countries and at ING Bank Romania, where he developed his business consultancy, development, and management expertise. He began his career at Banca "Ion Tiriac", gaining foundational experience in the banking sector.
Boryana has extensive experience in corporate finance and financial advisory. Her career path starts at Postbank and continues at UniCredit, where she works in equity research and corporate finance advisory. She has a bachelor's degree in Business administration and a Master's in Finance and Banking. Boryana has been a CFA charter holder since 2011.
Boryana, the CFO of Access Finance AD, is responsible for the company's financial reporting, planning and analysis, liquidity and funding. Before joining Access Finance, she worked as a deputy CFO of its parent company for a year and a half. She has extensive experience in corporate finance and financial advisory.
Job Titles:
- CEO
- Head of International Business Development
- in 2015 As Head of International Operations
Dimiter, who joined Access Finance AD in 2015 as Head of International Operations, has been instrumental in the successful launch of the company's unsecured non-prime credit card product in Spain, Poland, North Macedonia and Romania. He is spearheading the project to establish operations in Mexico, taking on the role of interim CEO for this new venture.
In his tenure at Access Finance AD, Dimiter has served on the Boards of Directors for subsidiaries in Bulgaria, Spain, Poland, and Romania, bringing a wealth of experience and strategic insight. His leadership was particularly pivotal as CEO in Poland and Spain, where he guided the initial years of operations towards success.
Before his current role, Dimiter was the CEO of MCash Macedonia from 2016 to 2018, leading the company to become the first online lender in the country and one of the most profitable entities within MFG. His background includes significant management roles at Lidl (Schwarz Group) and a Vienna-based management consultancy.
As CEO of the Mexico expansion, Dimiter's responsibilities encompass overseeing the new market venture's operational setup and legal structuring. He will be pivotal in adapting and implementing the unsecured credit card product to fit the unique needs of the Mexican market, ensuring compliance with local regulations and fostering successful product adoption. Additionally, his role involves comprehensive project management, from initial market analysis to establishing a fully operational subsidiary.
Dimiter's qualifications as a CFA charter holder since 2006 and a Master in Business Administration from Sofia University, combined with his fluency in multiple languages, including Spanish, position him exceptionally well for leading Access Finance's expansion into Mexico. His diverse experience and proven track record in international operations and strategic leadership will be critical in navigating the complexities of establishing and growing the company's presence in this new market.
Dimiter joined Access Finance AD in 2015 as Head of International Operations and directly oversaw the successful rollout of the company's flagship unsecured non-prime credit card product in three European markets - Spain, Poland and Romania. Currently, he manages the project for the start of operations in the USA and Mexico. Dimiter is a member of the boards of directors of the subsidiaries in Bulgaria, Spain, Poland, and Romania. He also held the CEO roles in Poland and Spain in the initial years of operations.
Dimiter was also CEO of MCash Macedonia (which formed part of Access Finance at the time) from 2016 to 2018 when the company became the first online lender in the country.
Before joining Access Finance, Dimiter held management roles at different organisations, including one of the world's largest private companies, Lidl (Schwarz Group).
He has been a CFA charter holder since 2006 and holds a master's degree in Business Administration from Sofia University. Dimiter is fluent in Bulgarian, English, German, Russian and Spanish.
With a wealth of experience in human resources, the development of people to their full potential and quality systems, Dobrinka Yordanova is an HR Director at Access Finance AD. She joined the company in 2021 as an HR Manager. Dobrinka is a seasoned Head of HR known for driving organisational success through strategic talent management.
Demonstrating expertise in recruitment, employee relations, and policy implementation, Dobrinka excels in fostering a positive workplace culture. Her commitment to compliance and dedication to professional development have played pivotal roles in shaping thriving teams. A dynamic leader, Dobrinka brings a unique blend of HR acumen, contributing significantly to the growth and success of the organisation by aligning human capital strategies with business objectives.
Job Titles:
- Director of Administration
Evgenia brings over fifteen years of expertise in financial products, services, and customer support to her role at Access Finance. Her journey with the company began in 2013 when Access Finance started making its mark. Now, she leads the Administration Department with a robust skill set in business operations, administration, team leadership, and finance.
Under her guidance, the Administration Department ensures smooth business operations, focusing on repayments, settlements, and back-office activities. Evgenia's team also manages contracts, partners, and vendors. Her educational background includes a master's degree in Business Administration, which complements her professional experience.
Evgenia is known for her passion for new products, digitalization, finance, and people, making her a valuable asset to Access Finance and a leader in her field.
Job Titles:
- Director of Business Operations
Filip is the Director of Business Operations at Access Finance AD. By joining Access Finance in its early start-up days in 2014, Filip accumulated much experience. He has been pivotal in project management, change management, product ownership, technology adoption, business development, and operations. His leadership extends to overseeing the fintech services of Access Finance's subsidiaries across Europe, driving growth by developing business models and implementing solutions that generate additional revenue streams.
Filip's professional journey includes significant roles at notable Bulgarian entities such as Manpower, DSM, Givaudan, and Nestle. His academic background is equally impressive, holding a bachelor's and master's degree in Economy of Defense and Security from The University of National and World Economy. He also earned a second master's in Finance and Financial Management Services from New Bulgarian University.
Further enhancing his professional credentials, Filip has obtained several licenses and certificates that add substantial value to his expertise. These include PRINCE2 Foundation from Axelos Global Best Practice, Scrum Fundamentals from SCRUMstudy, Professional Scrum Product Owner I (PSPO I) from Scrum.org, and a Mini MBA from PwC's Academy Bulgaria. These qualifications underscore his commitment to continuous learning and excellence in his field.
Job Titles:
- Country Manager
- Country Manager of Access Finance SL Spain
Gustavo Santillan, the Country Manager of Access Finance SL Spain, brings an extensive 25-year background in the consumer finance industry.
In his role, Gustavo is tasked with the strategic leadership of developing and implementing commercial strategies that align with Access Finance SL's overall objectives. A significant part of his role involves launching new products and services tailored to meet the Spanish market's local needs and regulatory requirements.
Operational efficiency is a crucial area of focus for Gustavo. He oversees the optimization of organizational operations in Spain, streamlining processes, reducing costs, and enhancing overall efficiency to surpass business goals. His leadership extends to managing high-performing, cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative work environment, and ensuring his team is well-equipped and trained.
Job Titles:
- CEO
- CSO
- Member of the Board
With over 25 years of a flourishing career, Ivan Arnaudov has established himself as a pivotal figure in digital marketing, particularly renowned for his expertise in data-driven strategies and market expansions. As the CEO of Access Finance Inc., Ivan is now poised to lead the company's ambitious entry into the USA market, aiming to replicate and surpass the success achieved in European markets.
Ivan's journey spans diverse sectors, including IT, BPO, Telecom and Finance, where he has collaborated with leading global brands. This rich tapestry of experiences has honed his ability to navigate complex challenges and drive growth in varied business landscapes. His expertise encompasses digital marketing, complex sales, and business development, focusing on leveraging marketing automation and fostering organic growth.
Ivan has driven the company's significant growth since joining Access Finance AD in 2013 as a shareholder and Marketing and Sales Director. Under his leadership, Access Finance AD has successfully established its presence in several European markets, including Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, North Macedonia, and Spain.
In his current role as CEO, Ivan is the architect of the company's global expansion strategy, with a clear focus on establishing a solid foothold in the USA market. He spearheads strategic digital marketing and sales initiatives, manages the MarTech and IT domains, and launches innovative products and business ventures. His leadership is crucial in navigating the complexities of the US market and positioning Access Finance Inc. as a critical player in the financial sector.
Ivan's vision for the USA expansion is centred around understanding and adapting to the unique needs of the American consumer, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and building strong local partnerships. He aims to make the USA market one of the most successful in the company's portfolio, setting a new benchmark for Access Finance AD's international growth.
Ivan's professional journey has touched various sectors, from IT and BPO to Finance and Telecom, working with top global brands. This diverse experience has enriched his insights and equipped him with a versatile approach to challenges. His extensive experience covers digital marketing, sales, and business development, focusing on marketing automation and organic growth.
Ivan's academic credentials are both diverse and impressive. Ivan studied Economic Law at the University of Applied Sciences Mainz (Germany) and delved into Finance at the Goethe University Frankfurt am Main (Germany) and St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo (Bulgaria).
In 2013, Ivan joined Access Finance AD, taking on shareholder and Marketing & Sales Director role. Under his leadership, the company has witnessed significant growth, marking its presence in European markets such as Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, North Macedonia, and Spain.
As the Chief Strategy Officer at Access Finance AD, Ivan is at the forefront of the company's global expansion. He spearheads strategic digital marketing and sales initiatives, oversees the MarTech and IT domains, and is instrumental in launching new business ventures and innovative products. His position on the Board further underscores his pivotal role in shaping the company's future trajectory.
Ivan is the dynamic leader of the technology team at Access Finance AD, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's technological vision. His responsibilities include implementing strategic technology initiatives and ensuring technical resources perfectly align with the company's business objectives. Ivan's journey with Access Finance began after a successful tenure as the head of software development and solutions architect at SmartIT, a prominent software development solutions firm.
His academic journey took him from his native Sofia to Madrid, where he earned a Master's in Informatics Engineering from Carlos III University. His professional path then led him to roles as a Software Analyst and Developer in Madrid. In 2010, Ivan returned to Sofia and began a career with MFG, starting as a Software Developer. Through dedication and expertise, he ascended to the role of CTO for Access Finance AD by 2020.
Ivan's proficiency in both Spanish and English complements his professional skills, while his passions include backcountry snowboarding, snowkiting, and kitesurfing. His unique blend of technical understanding and leadership qualities makes him an invaluable asset to Access Finance AD.
Job Titles:
- CEO
- Member of the Board
- Visionary Leader
Tsvetan Krastev, a visionary leader with over 15 years of expertise in consumer lending and payment services, has been Co-founder, shareholder and CEO of Access Finance AD since 2013. He is also a founding member of Easy Payment Services Ltd. (Credit card issuer - a principal member of Mastercard) and holds significant roles on the Management Board of the MFG. His academic credentials include a Master's Degree in Economics from the University of National and World Economy. As a Board Member of Access Finance AD, he provides strategic direction and oversight, ensuring company growth and success.
Mr Krastev's leadership has successfully launched and expanded Access Finance's credit card and other lending products across European markets such as Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, North Macedonia, and Spain. His tenure as CEO is marked by a dedication to R&D in financial products, business development, and international growth.
Before becoming CEO of Access Finance AD, Tsvetan served as the Chief Operations Officer at Easy Asset Management AD (Easy Credit). His expertise is further highlighted by establishing several successful consumer lending and payment services entities, including AXI Finance IFN S.A. (Romania), Easy Payment Services Ltd (Bulgaria), and Easy Payment Services sp. z o.o. (Poland), and Access Finance SL (Spain).
Mr Krastev's journey with the MFG began at Easy Asset Management AD (Easy Credit). in 2007 as a credit inspector. His initial short-term role transformed when he introduced a novel product idea, leading to his rise as the COO of Easy Credit. By 2013, in collaboration with a colleague, he pioneered the development of White Card with Access Finance AD, a startup that began in a modest office space.
Tsvetan's core strengths encompass product development, business set-up, portfolio management, and strategic planning. As a visionary leader, his responsibilities transcend daily operations. He is fervently dedicated to broadening financial accessibility, fostering innovation in fintech, and ensuring that Access Finance AD and its associated ventures remain industry leaders. His transition from a credit inspector to a CEO and Board Member is a testament to his dedication, leadership prowess, and capability to metamorphose ideas into thriving ventures.
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder
- Member of the Board
Nedelcho Spasov, a proud Co-founder of Access Finance AD, Member of the Board of Access Finance AD and seasoned entrepreneur, boasts over 16 years of financial services and technology expertise. He holds a Master's degree in economics and industrial management from the University of National and World Economy, complemented by an MBA from INSEAD.
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder
- Member of the Board
Stanimir Vassilev, a distinguished Co-founder and Board Chairman of the Management Financial Group (MFG), also proudly co-founded Access Finance AD. An alumnus of INSEAD with an MBA, his academic journey began with electronic engineering at the Technical University of Sofia, followed by finance at the University of National and World Economy.
Mr Vassilev has been an influential force in financial services and fintech for over a quarter-century. In collaboration with Nedelcho Spasov, the duo established Easy Asset Management AD (One of South-Eastern Europe's largest non-bank financial institutions) in 2005 and held a significant stake in MFG. Serving on the Board of Access Finance AD, Stanimir Vassilev's leadership is anchored in his dedication to broad financial accessibility, underscored by humanity, innovation, and responsibility principles.
His Primary Duties:
Direct and synchronise comprehensive financial planning, active in budgetary and cash flow determinations.
Strategically oversee the company's financial operations, prioritising the protection and efficient allocation of organisational assets.
Champion and supervise local and international organisational, structural, and operational evolutions.
Maintain and advocate for superior corporate governance and ethical standards, ensuring alignment with industry best practices to protect the company's assets and reputation.
Formulate and implement annual business goals aligned with the company's overarching strategy and fiscal position while consistently engaging in Board of Directors discussions.
Job Titles:
- Distinguished Co - Founder and Board Chairman of the Management Financial Group
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board
- CRO
- Director of Credit Risk
Velko Kamenov is the Director of Credit Risk and Data Science and an Access Finance AD Board Member. His academic foundation is robust, with a Bachelor's degree in International Economic Relations from the University of National and World Economy, a Master's Degree in Big Data Modelling in Economics and Finance from Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, and a Professional Certificate in Data Science from HarvardX.
Mr Kamenov's association with the MFG began in 2017, initially joining the Credit Risk and Revenue Optimization Directorate as a Junior Data Scientist. His ascent within the group has been notable, transitioning through various roles and, by 2020, taking on the mantle of Team Lead of Data Science teams. As of 2022, he holds the esteemed position of Head of the Credit Risk and Data Science Directorate at Access Finance AD, overseeing developing and managing cutting-edge Machine Learning Systems for credit risk management.
Throughout his tenure, Velko has been instrumental in managing the design, development, deployment, and monitoring of state-of-the-art machine learning and artificial intelligence-based client assessment systems. His expertise is further enriched by various Machine Learning certifications from Stanford University and the Software University in Bulgaria.
Mr Kamenov's strengths lie in building and leading efficient data science teams, developing advanced Machine Learning Systems, and optimising processes for business profit maximisation. His responsibilities encompass predictive modelling, report automation, statistical data analysis, credit risk modelling, and business analysis. His commitment to leveraging data science for business growth and risk management positions him as a critical figure in the evolving landscape of fintech and credit risk management.
Job Titles:
- Head of Payments and Business Development
Victor has 16 years of experience in the financial sector, particularly in the payments domain, and brings a wealth of expertise to Access Finance. He is currently managing all aspects of Access Finance's payments business and leading the development of innovative products and services in new markets.
Before joining Access Finance, Victor led the card business at two prominent Bulgarian banks, including the country's leading credit card issuer. His extensive background includes retail lending, payment schemes, issuing and acquiring businesses, product development, business negotiations, and loyalty schemes. Victor has a track record of success, including leading the acquisition and portfolio transition of two major banks in the card and payment network sector and the conversion of the American Express credit cards portfolio in the market.
Victor's notable achievements include creating and developing the award-winning credit card loyalty scheme MyRewards. He was also instrumental in introducing the first Mastercard World Elite metal card in Bulgaria, setting a new standard in the country's credit card offerings. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of the financial sector, particularly in the realm of payment solutions and customer rewards programs.
Zheko Staykov has been an integral part of Access Finance AD's establishment; he has played a vital role in the organisation's growth. He progressed through various positions as a Team Leader and Call Centre Manager, and since 2021, he has held the position of Director within the "Operational Activity and Customer Service" department. Gaining his previous experience at the other Call Centres, Zheko has contributed significantly as a Quality Control and Supervisor, underscoring his diverse expertise and leadership capabilities. Educated with a bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of National and World Economy, Zheko is committed to driving operational excellence and enhancing customer service standards within Access Finance. Get in touch