Expansion of auticon ”“ social enterprise helping FinTechs add autistic talent to their teams
The social enterprise tech consultancy auticon which has a base in Edinburgh, has entered into an agreement to unite with Unicus, a similar organisation operating mainly in the Nordics which also seeks to improve the lives of autistic adults through employment. The historic deal establishes a global model for an autistic-majority social enterprise and ESG company, addressing the inequalities in employment for neurodivergent adults. The two combined companies will become the largest autistic-majority organisation in the world with 81% (465) of its 575 employees on the autism spectrum and will operate in 14 countries, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, Netherlands, Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom, North America, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Switzerland, and France.
Unicus Founder and CEO Lars Johansson-Kjellerød commented: “By our marriage, we create the world’s largest autistic-majority corporation. With the focus on neurodiversity, we will continue to create unique results for our customers and an increased quality of life for our employees. The joint companies have the same DNA and vision to create a more inclusive world, and when we combine Unicus and auticon’s long experience, that is, in my opinion, the best prerequisites to successfully foster change and innovation and to create the leading social company focusing on neurodiversity. I am looking forward to the journey ahead!” 
Unicus CEO Lars Johansson-Kjellerød, auticon Group CEO Kurt Schöffer and CFO Markus Weber are photographed in 2023 in Italy where the Management Board met to define details of the deal
Auticon is an award-winning social innovation company and offers organisations a unique way to bring tech and data expertise plus neurodivergent thinking into their teams. They integrate their autistic consultants into client organizations on a project-basis, performing as software developers, data analysts, QA engineers, and more. Clients experience the benefits of working with autistic professionals first-hand, opening minds and achieving excellent results through diversity of thought and creative thinking.
auticon’s clients in Scotland include a number of Financial Services organisations. David Hodgson, Engineering Lead for Engage Me Lab at Lloyds Banking Group said “Over the last year we’ve been working with auticon. Their support and training has helped us understand neurodiversity and opened positive conversations. auticon colleagues have brought strengths to our team both in delivery and contributing to our culture”.
auticon empowers the clients they work with through actionable neurodiversity training and advisory services. They are the first international neuroinclusion services provider offering lived experience, training, advice, technology solutions and experienced coaching to support organisations in their commitment to being neuroinclusive. They have over a decade of experience of attracting, recruiting, hiring, onboarding and retaining neurodivergent talent and want to help their clients deliver business and impact goals, just like they have, by having a diverse organisation that is successfully neuroinclusive.
“We don’t just jump straight in with off the shelf solutions. It is vital we understand your business and the people working with you. We know very well that one neurodivergent person is different from the next neurodivergent person, and it’s the same for businesses. We take a thorough 360 approach so that everything we do is tailored, collaborative and doesn’t create a silo of neuroinclusion. Instead, we help you to become a fully integrated neuroinclusive employer with practices that complement existing strategies, not create more work.” Emma Walker ”“ Regional Director Scotland
auticon was established in Germany in 2011 by a father looking to create more opportunities for his own autistic son as he realised that autistic people are too often unemployed or underemployed. It is estimated that only 29% of autistic adults are in employment (Office for National Statistics, UK, 2022) yet many possess cognitive strengths that make them particularly well-suited for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Despite this, they are faced with barriers such as an exclusionary recruitment process, poor autism awareness, and employers feeling unprepared to offer support. This is what auticon and Unicus continue to tackle. The auticon London office opened in 2016, followed by the establishment of the Edinburgh team in 2019. Both offices operate rolling recruitment and are always keen to hear from autistic people with strong tech and data skills. Both offices are also always delighted to explore options for collaboration with new clients.
Find out more at Home – auticon United Kingdom or contact Emma Walker ”“ Regional Director Scotland on Emma.Walker@auticon.co.uk
By Now Pay Later 2.0, what it means for fintechs and financial services providers
Season 3, episode 8
Listen to the full episode here.
By Now Pay Later is not something new. Offline, it’s a process that goes back several decades. Online we’ve started to see offers develop in the last 10 years with a real acceleration powered by fintech innovation in the last 5 years.
In the UK this market represents $27Bn and is expected to reach $55Bn by 2028 according to Payments Cards and Mobile.
Recently we’ve started to witness the appearance of what’s called BNPL 2.0.
According to CU today 61% of BNPL users would rather use a BNPL service offered directly from the merchant they’re buying from than go through a third party.
In this episode we’ll be speaking about BNPL2.0 and wonder if this is in fact the future, its advantages and pitfalls
Guests:
Geordie Laing – Head of Partnerships at Zing Cover
Thomas Bull – Partner at EY and Head of Fintech Growth
AutoRek secures Best CASS Solution for the fourth consecutive year
Scottish fintech AutoRek achieved outstanding recognition at the Systems in the City Fintech Awards 2023.
Demonstrating unrivaled excellence, Autorek clinched the highly coveted title of Best CASS Solution for a fourth consecutive year. Organised by specialist business and technology consultancy Goodacre, those awards celebrate the finest achievements in the industry.
Leahn Parry, Head of Governance, Risk, and Compliance at AutoRek, claimed the individual award for Compliance Specialist.
In addition to securing the crown for Best CASS Solution, AutoRek was also recognised as a contender for Best Wealth Management Solution.
Lyn Canavan, Vice President of Marketing at AutoRek, stated,
“The recognition of winning this prestigious award, along with reaffirming AutoRek’s standing as the indisputable Best CASS Solution, fills us with immeasurable joy. Over the years, we have meticulously refined and perfected our CASS solution in close collaboration with our esteemed clientele. This victory serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts exhibited by the entire AutoRek team behind the scenes.”
Leahn Parry added,
“It is with immense honor that I receive this prestigious award. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Goodacre, the distinguished panel of judges, and the individual who nominated me.”
The Systems in the City Fintech Awards serve as a resounding endorsement for suppliers of services and systems within the regulated financial services sector.
Guided by an independent and fact-based annual accreditation process, the selection procedure is meticulously overseen by a panel of three independent judges.
These awards serve as a pivotal reference point for enterprises evaluating the suitability of their operational infrastructure, cementing their crucial role within the industry.
Smardaten Technologies Secures Technology Pioneer Title from World Economic Forum
Scotland-based Smardaten Technologies, a cutting-edge provider of big data and no-code software technology and services was one of the select few “Technology Pioneers” recognised by the World Economic Forum.
In its quest to identify the most promising Technology Pioneers worldwide, the World Economic Forum has unveiled a list featuring 100 companies actively addressing critical issues such as revolutionary technologies, sustainability, climate change, and healthcare. Among the winners is Smardaten Technologies, leading the charge with its fourth-generation big data-powered NoCode platform.
Established by a team of data technology experts from prominent conglomerates in China, Smardaten Technologies introduces a groundbreaking no-code technology, fuelled by intelligent data, that expedites traditional software development timelines from 1-2 years to an impressive 3-6 weeks. Furthermore, the company plays a pivotal role in carbon reduction by significantly decreasing the hours of computer resource consumption.
The World Economic Forum’s Technology Pioneers represent early-stage companies spearheading novel technologies and innovations poised to make a substantial impact on both business and society. Verena Kuhn, the Head of Innovator Communities at the World Economic Forum, enthusiastically welcomed Smardaten and fellow pioneers, acknowledging their instrumental role in driving innovation and disruptive solutions to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. Their contributions to the Forum’s collaborative efforts, uniting public and private sectors, are eagerly anticipated.
Dr. Yadong (Adam) Cao, co-founder and COO of Smardaten, as a distinguished Technology Pioneer, has been invited to actively engage with the World Economic Forum. Collaborating with global leaders, Dr. Cao will help address key industry and societal issues. Additionally, Technology Pioneers will receive exclusive invitations to participate in Forum events and discussions throughout the year, fostering meaningful exchanges among influential stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
FinTech Scotland’s Chair appointed as Non-Executive Directors to the CFIT board
The Centre for Finance, Innovation, and Technology (CFIT) has appointed Stephen Ingledew OBE, to their board as an independent non-executive director.
CFIT, established in early 2023, operates at the crossroads of government, regulators, and industry, serving as a central force for collaboration within the financial innovation space. It aims to set priorities, drive solutions, and foster growth within the UK fintech sector.
Alongside Alex Marsh, Former Head of Klarna UK, Stephen will bring invaluable experience and insights to the CFIT team. As independent non-executive directors, both him and Alex will bolster CFIT’s governance and facilitate the formation of expert coalitions comprising professionals from finance, technology, academia, and policy makers.
Stephen Ingledew OBE is an influential advocate for openness, creativity, and inclusivity in the financial world. With an impressive track record in driving collaborations across UK regional fintech clusters, Stephen will chair CFIT’s Remuneration and Nomination Committee. His expertise in selecting board members and executive directors ensures a balance of skills, independence, and knowledge, critical for CFIT’s success in fostering innovation and collaboration.
Stephen commented:
“I am thrilled to have been appointed NED for CFIT. Having set up Fintech Scotland in 2018 to deliver positive economic outcomes through financial innovation, I have first hand experience of driving collaborations across diverse stakeholders and organisations and can bring my expertise to the team as we, jointly, lead the charge for financial innovation across the UK.”
To read more about this announcement visit the CFIT website
DirectID and Zinia AI partner to assist with regulatory compliance in lending
The collaboration between DirectID and Zinia AI propels lenders towards an unprecedented realm, where flawless compliance and unrivaled personalisation coexist seamlessly.
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape of today, discerning customers yearn for bespoke financial encounters tailored precisely to their distinct requirements. Through DirectID’s cutting-edge open banking service, lenders gain direct access to real-time financial data, emboldening them to truly apprehend their customers’ financial patterns, inclinations, and capabilities. This wealth of information serves as the bedrock for lending decisions that transcend boundaries, ushering in an era of hyper-personalized experiences that foster unparalleled satisfaction and unwavering loyalty.
Armed with Zinia’s visionary decisioning algorithms, lenders can automate, refine, and imbue hyper-personalised journeys within the lending process, birthing superlative outcomes that captivate customers. Zinia’s formidable technology empowers lenders to make precise, consistent, and equitable lending determinations, taking into account an expansive array of factors, encompassing affordability, risk tolerance, and suitability.
In an era of transformative shifts in consumer obligations within the lending industry, the alliance between DirectID and Zinia emerges as a paradigm-shifting game-changer. Together, we embrace the opportunity to shape the future of lending, equipping lenders with the ability to deliver unparalleled personalisation on a grand scale, surpassing even the loftiest of regulatory benchmarks.
If you are a lender driven to carve your own distinct identity in the market and surge ahead of the competition, we implore you to embark upon an exploration of the profound possibilities that lie within the DirectID-Zinia AI partnership. Connect with us today to unlock a treasure trove of insights into how we can empower you to drive hyper-personalised outcomes that will leave an indelible mark.
Nikola Kelly joins Scotcoin’s Advisory Panel.
The Scotcoin Project (TSP) is excited to announce the addition of Nikola Kelly from the Be-It Group to its Advisory Panel.
Nik has a vast background in the Scottish Technology sector, leading highly skilled teams for 16 years. Recently, she completed an MBO of Be-IT Group, which includes Be-IT Resourcing, the largest independently owned IT Recruitment Specialist firm in Scotland, and BE-IT Projects, a growing IT consultancy. Nik’s primary focus remains on the growth of Be-IT Group. She also serves on the Advisory Board for Career Ready, a national social mobility charity, and actively promotes diversity and inclusion in the Scottish technology market. Nik frequently speaks at events on topics such as Women in Technology and Inclusion within Neurodiverse Communities. Alongside her impressive professional achievements, Nik is a mother of four and has received recognition as the Scottish Women in Business Young Star and for her outstanding contributions as a young business leader.
Starting from 1st July, Nik will join the TSP advisory panel to assist in the search for a CEO who will lead the management team. This team’s primary objective will be to develop a preferred partner base centered around TSP’s core values of providing food, clothing, and accommodation for those in greatest need.
Temple Melville, CEO of TSP, expressed his delight at Nik’s inclusion in the Advisory Panel, emphasising her extensive knowledge and expertise in both IT and business. He believes that she will play a significant role in implementing the business plan as it unfolds.
Nikola Kelly shared her excitement about joining the TSP Advisory Panel during this momentous period. Having supported numerous fintech companies in their growth journeys, she finds it incredible to be involved with Scotland’s digital currency and the world’s first ethical cryptocurrency. Nik is thrilled to embark on this amasing journey and contribute to making a positive social and ethical impact.
Encompass Corporation Appoints Cheri Burns as PR & Corporate Communications Director
Scotland based Encompass Corporation, has named industry veteran Cheri Burns as the Director of PR & Corporate Communications. In her new role, Burns will oversee media relations for the company.
Burns will be responsible for developing and executing Encompass’ global PR and communications strategy, including managing relationships with analysts and influencers in collaboration with leading trade bodies and industry experts.
Before joining Encompass, Burns held significant editorial positions at national newspapers such as The Daily Record and The Herald, as well as BBC Sport Scotland. She later managed the publications stream for the Glasgow 2018 European Championships.
Cheri Burns, the PR & Corporate Communications Director at Encompass Corporation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating,
“I am thrilled to assume the role of PR & Corporate Communications Director at Encompass, leading media relations for such an innovative organisation.”
“Encompass plays a vital role in addressing global issues like combating financial crime and driving workplace diversity, inclusion, and development. I am excited to continue sharing our values and insights with the media.”
“Effective communication is essential in the technology and financial services industries, fostering awareness and dialogue on important topics, while showcasing innovative solutions that support businesses and encourage collaboration.”
Magalie Pimentel, VP of Marketing at Encompass Corporation, commented,
“Cheri’s extensive and diverse background in public relations, coupled with her profound understanding of the RegTech landscape, makes her an invaluable asset to our organisation.”
“With Cheri’s passion and expertise in shaping brand narratives that resonate with our target audiences, we are confident in our ability to effectively communicate our global vision, values, and innovation.”
Leading global banks and financial institutions, including members of the Wolfsberg Group, rely on Encompass’ award-winning platform to automate the KYC search process and generate real-time digital KYC profiles of their customers within minutes, rather than hours or days.
By streamlining complex manual processes, Encompass enables regulated firms to expedite revenue generation, enhance operational efficiency, and demonstrate consistent compliance.
Addressing stress in the tech industry
As we approach the summer season and holidays, it’s a good time to reflect on managing the work like balance.
Burnout is a significant concern in the tech industry, given its fast-paced and demanding nature; the constant pressure to meet deadlines and deliver results, to stay updated with the latest trends, acquire new skills, and outperform peers. Tight project timelines, high expectations, and a culture that values productivity all can lead to chronic stress and anxiety. Fear of falling behind or losing job security further exacerbates stress levels.
Post covid, working patterns have changed, more of us are continuing to work more at home, blurring the work-home, work-life distinction. Whilst this way of working has benefit from increased flexibility, the lack of boundaries can lead to increased stress, with remote work arrangements, global collaborations, and the expectation of always being accessible, adding to the difficulties in finding the time to disconnect and recharge.
We need to reconsider the work-life balance. Work ”“ life balance sounds like it is either/ or ”“ we work or we have a life ”“ we have no life at work. We are not one self at work and another self at home, we need a holistic approach, one integrated self at home and work. Work needs to be more life friendly, so feel comfortable taking breaks, recognise that we work better when we are relaxed and refreshed. Keeping continual pressure to perform will exhaust us.
The tech industry can be a double whammy with long hours of intense workloads leaving little time for relaxation and self-care and the sedentary nature of tech roles, with prolonged periods of sitting, limited physical activity, and poor ergonomic practices makes it harder to look after our physical health contributing to health issues such as musculoskeletal problems, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions.
So what can you do about it? Take advantage of flexible work arrangements, any wellness programmes or stress management resources. Make time for you. Recognise when you need a break and make and take time. Talk to colleagues about ways to better organise workloads, communication strategies to maximise your time. Pay particular attention to your home life, research shows that burnout is much more likely to occur if work and home are stressful. If this is the case ”“ do something about it now. Be proactive. Reach out to others to help you, it does not have to be a deep emotional heart to heart, just connecting with someone at work or socially, having a chat, doing something you like, can be restorative. Get outside, do something physical helps you see things differently and find other ways of doing things.
At the heart of our wellness is the ability to have autonomy, that is agency over ourselves, be in charge of ourselves, relatedness, that is connecting with others, and competency, that is recognising our skills. These all contribute to our purpose and meaning. This doesn’t have to be a huge life mission but can be a sense of what’s important to us today. Small acts of kindness, a smile, a compliment, all help build our connectedness to others and make us feel good too. And don’t forget to be kind to yourself as well. Lastly pay attention to your sleep, good sleep protects mental health ”“ but that’s another blog!
Dr Sheila Ross, health psychologist, co-founder Feeling good app ”“ proven audio programmes derived from sports training for recovering mental fitness and resilience. contact sheila@positiverewards.co.uk for more information about how your organisation could benefit from free app access. www.feelinggood.app
Photo by Oladimeji Ajegbile: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-working-using-a-laptop-2696299/
Over 50% of employers and professionals embrace AI
New research conducted by FinTech Scotland’s strategic partner Hays reveals that a significant majority of both employers (57%) and workers (56%) in Scotland hold a positive view of AI in the workplace, advocating its adoption rather than fearing it.
The study gathered responses from over 8,800 professionals and employers across the UK, including nearly 450 participants from Scotland. Interestingly, 34% of employers remain undecided about the benefits of AI, while only 9% perceive it as a source of fear.
Currently, only 20% of employers report using AI tools, although certain fields, such as marketing, demonstrate higher adoption rates, with 37% of professionals affirming their use of AI tools in their current roles. The utilisation of AI is also notable in technology (30%), architecture (23%), and sales (17%). The primary reason for the limited implementation of AI tools is a lack of awareness or understanding regarding their advantages.
Keith Mason, the Director of Hays Scotland, explains that while the research highlights a predominantly positive attitude toward AI in the workplace, the adoption and usage of AI tools remain low as organisations across all sectors strive to comprehend how AI can benefit their operations. Currently, only 34% of employers invest in staff training to enhance their AI tool and technology skills, with a fraction of this group utilising tools like ChatGPT.
The significant advantages of integrating AI in organisations include cost savings, process efficiencies, and improved productivity. However, Mason emphasises the importance of a balanced approach that focuses on job transformation rather than replacing human workers.
Hays has observed the growth of AI-related recruitment in Scotland, but concerns regarding regulation and ethical use persist. Workers can reap the benefits of AI by transitioning into more engaging and meaningful roles, but this requires employers to invest in adequate upskilling and reskilling initiatives.
Mason highlights the worrisome gap between the rapid progress of AI technology and the lack of appropriate skills within the workforce to harness its full potential. Professionals have a substantial opportunity to upskill themselves and understand the impact of AI on their respective fields, enabling them to leverage AI tools for career advancement. The research strongly suggests that embracing AI and providing relevant training not only bridges the digital skills gap but also positions businesses as innovative and desirable in the evolving job market.
Mason illustrates an example of how AI can enhance recruitment processes, particularly at the initial pre-screening stage for matching candidates with job requirements, especially in high-volume recruitment scenarios like call centers. However, AI cannot replace the human element required to assess cultural fit, individual strengths, weaknesses, and character traits, which are crucial factors that add value to a business. The integration of AI must be balanced with human capabilities.
The study also reveals that the majority of employers (65%) plan to allow staff to use AI tools but will monitor their usage. Five percent of employers have already banned the use of AI tools, and 12% intend to ban tools like ChatGPT. Less than 20% of workers claim to have used an AI tool such as ChatGPT in their current roles, although this figure rises to 37% for professionals aged between 20 and 29.