Matthew O'Neill

Throughout my career, I have navigated the complexities of financial services, blending my leadership roles with positions in technology innovation. I have always focused on facilitating real, transformational change—turning strategic aspirations into practical outcomes through leveraging technology. I always strive to leave each role in a better position for my customers, colleagues and successors.

In my journey, I have worn two distinct hats—first, on the buy, adopt, and run side, leading operations and infrastructure within highly regulated environments where operational resilience, cost control, agility, and maintaining uninterrupted service were paramount. Here, the challenge was to run and change complex systems efficiently, ensuring compliance with regulations and their regional variations while striving for best-in-class cost-effectiveness.

Since transitioning to the sell side of SaaS, my role has evolved to helping more customers realise the potential of technology solutions, driving adoption, and creating ARR growth opportunities. I recognise that new software sales are not always the best customer outcome, yet focusing on people, process, and technology has led to bigger deals, more repeat business and greater strategic engagement.

This juxtaposition of managing buy-side costs effectively while generating sell-side revenue has given me a unique perspective on the delicate balance between innovation, operational excellence, and how to get to wins for both sides.

My work continues to span the spectrum of financial services and other regulated industries' adoption of technology, from the emerging (and often over-hyped) potential of Generative AI and Blockchain/Web3 to the strategic imperatives of cybersecurity, operational resilience, DORA regulation, cloud and digital transformation initiatives. I now appreciate both the buy and sell side of our industry's opportunities and realities.

As the host of "Don't Break The Bank podcast", I engage with a diverse audience, sharing insights and discussions on the latest industry trends and challenges. This platform has allowed me to connect with others who are equally passionate about shaping the future of financial services.

I'm here to share my experiences and learn from others. If you're navigating the convergence of financial service and technology, I'd welcome the chance to connect and see how we can work together towards innovative solutions and better customer outcomes.