For readers curious about how fintech firms build networks, Sends, a UK based payments company serving both individual customers and organisations, took part in the Payments Leaders’ Summit UK in London, an event spanning 20 and 21 October. At the event, Sends’ chief executive, Alona Shevtsova, oversaw the Women in Business Lunch, pulling together senior women from finance, technology and the broader commercial world to discuss leadership, career growth and the future facing women in this field.
Taking place on 20 October inside the InterContinental London Park Lane, the lunch included contributions from Maggie Bazemore, Systems Director at Mr & Mrs Smith, as well as Beatrice Andreea Sava, Senior Strategy Consultant at Edgar, Dunn & Company.
With Alona Shevtsova directing the session, attendees discussed the personal and career factors that shaped their leadership style, considered why mentors and professional networks matter, and looked at the opportunities open to women pursuing careers in industries traditionally run by men.
A key point raised was how the position of women in finance and technology keeps changing. Although representation has improved somewhat in recent years, participants noted that difficulties still exist, especially in senior leadership and technical roles, and discussed what adjustments are required to make career paths more inclusive.
“Leadership is not simply about reaching a certain position. It is about taking responsibility, creating opportunities for others and building an environment where people can grow. Discussions like this are important because they allow us to share real experiences, learn from one another and encourage more women to take an active role in shaping the future of financial services,” Alona Shevtsova, CEO of Sends, shared with attendees.
Following its appearance in London, Sends hopes to continue working with the organisers of the Payments Leaders’ Summit at their next event, planned for Dubai in February 2027. The firm regards the Middle East as a valuable market for building industry contacts and exploring further opportunities for international partnership.
Sends keeps building its role within international payments. During October 2026, it revealed fresh cooperation with UnionPay International focused on expanding both card issuing and card acquiring work. The partnership is designed to widen the range of international payment choices available to Sends customers, while helping merchants connect with a wider international audience, notably within markets tied to Asia.
Alongside this international push, Sends stays committed to widening access to financial services for small and medium sized businesses across the UK. The company has introduced a limited autumn offer that lets qualifying businesses which set up a GBP Business Payment Account also include an EUR or USD account without paying any extra fee for opening the account.
