TrueTalk with Sebastian

Tell us about your role

I’m responsible for the performance, strategy and alignment of TrueLayer’s business in Germany. 

What brought you to TrueLayer? 

The same understanding of goals and corporate culture made the sparks fly.  

Give us some career highlights?

During my time at Star Finanz (in the Sparkassen Finanzgruppe), my team built the first mobile banking app published by a German bank in the iOS and Android app stores. We were also one of the originators of ‘mobile pushTAN’ – a new SCA method which helps banks to avoid fraud. 

Other highlights include my time at figo as Head of Product and CPO for the first licensed open banking provider in Germany. As well as finleap connect, where my team successfully launched open banking integrations with Samsung Pay and O2 Money (by Telefonica). 

Strangest job you’ve ever had?

There were so many during my student time! For example, in one of these jobs I learned how to prepare big quantities of tzatziki.

What’s a typical day at TrueLayer for you?

I work remotely from Hamburg in Germany. My day starts normally at 8:30 preparing my daily goals. After that I start working on the most important thing of the day.

What are you most excited about over the next year at TrueLayer?

We’re changing how the world pays, enabling consumers to check out more easily and more securely, and access valuable new financial services.

How would your colleagues describe you?

Optimistic, persistent, patient and curious. 

What would you say to someone considering joining TrueLayer?

You'll be welcomed into a well-structured company that is designed to scale, with many talented people who are always there to help you. 

If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what might you have done?

If I hadn't joined TrueLayer, then that would be a pity. I always wanted to establish a unique open banking solution in Germany.

When you’re not at work, where might we find you?

With my family. Or on a long walk with friends. Or cheering on my favourite football club, FC St Pauli.

Words to live by?

Learn from others, use your knowledge and share it with others.

Any books, podcasts or films you’d recommend?

For founders, I'd recommend Russell Brunson’s DotCom Secrets.