Raidiam, a leading expert in data sharing technologies, has further expanded its global presence with the appointments of Jim Wadsworth to the role of Head of Advisory and Lauren Jones to the role of Strategic Advisory Partner.
Jim brings over 25 years of experience in banking and payments and has worked at the forefront of the Open Banking movement since 2018. He led Mastercard’s journey into Open Banking, and prior to that headed up the Vocalink UK product team that was responsible for critical national infrastructure services such as BACS and FPS. Earlier in his career, Jim built and managed innovative payment products and services at major brands including Vodafone, JP Morgan, and Barclaycard.
On joining Raidiam, Jim said: “The Open Finance phenomenon is expanding at a massive rate, creating new and exciting opportunities for countries, businesses, and citizens worldwide. Raidiam has a unique and proven set of capabilities to enable these opportunities. It also boasts a team with unparalleled expertise and know-how. As such, I am delighted to be joining the team to help further expand its offerings to central banks, regulators, market infrastructures, and financial institutions, among others.”
Lauren joins Raidiam with over 15 years of experience in banking and payments, including playing a significant role in the early-stage development of Open Banking standards such as ISO 20022 as well as standards endorsed by the G20. As a well-known face in the Open Banking movement, she’s represented the UK market at ISO, the European Payments Council and a number of groups within the European Central Bank, Berlin Group, and Swift. Lauren has also worked in various roles for fintechs, industry associations and market infrastructures, advising on payment strategies. In her first speaking engagement since joining Raidiam, Lauren will be moderating the Open Finance track at the Nordic Fintech Week, 25-26 September.
On joining Raidiam, Lauren said: “The data economy will be the future lifeblood of nations. Open Finance is an enabler and critical component to the development of innovations. Raidiam understands how to nurture and develop Open Finance in a way that can unlock the untapped potential and has years of hands-on experience in delivering ecosystems that support this vital growth. I am excited to join this expert team of pioneers who truly recognise the importance of Open Finance and support governments and regulators in unlocking their data potential.”
Barry O’Donohoe, Raidiam co-founder and CEO, said: “We’re beyond thrilled to welcome Jim and Lauren to the team to solidify further the impressive growth trajectory that Raidiam is on. With our unique credentials and expertise in the market, the additions of Lauren and Jim to the team will support us in our continuing leadership of the global development of Smart Data ecosystems. They are both highly respected individuals in their own regard, with Jim’s experience driving Open Banking expansion and Lauren’s reputation as a thought leader in the global movement. I’m delighted to welcome them to the team and look forward to seeing what we’ll achieve together.”