Shaun Lordan: FinTech CEO

Shaun Lordan

BSc Economics, 2009

Based in: Australia

Formerly from: UK

First job:

Paper boy and bottle collector when I was 12

Advice for current students:

Ambitions for the future:

To build a successful startup business with great people from the ground up and continue to support my amazing family on our ongoing adventures.

CEO, Sphere for Good

Describe your current role and what attracted you to it.

I lead a dynamic organisation that harnesses the power of business to drive positive social and environmental impact. What drew me to this role is the unique opportunity to merge commercial acumen with a passion for doing good. At Sphere, we're committed to creating scalable, sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet. I'm thrilled to be at the helm of an organisation that's redefining the intersection of business and social responsibility – first across Asia-Pacific, and then more widely.

What’s your favourite part of the role?

My favourite part of being CEO of Sphere for Good is the opportunity to work with an incredible team of passionate individuals who share my commitment to creating a more sustainable future. I love learning from our team members, who bring diverse expertise and perspectives to the table.

What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date?

My time at Warwick was instrumental in shaping my career. The Department of Economics was exceptional, with lecturers who were both experts in their field and passionate about teaching. I was fortunate to learn from them and alongside talented fellow students, which fostered a spirit of collaboration and healthy competition.

Did you have a specific career path in mind when you chose to study at Warwick?

I suspected I would end up somewhere in finance, given my strong numerical background, but always kept an open mind. I moved into banking straight out of university, joining HSBC on their grad scheme, and then joined Barclays in London and across Africa. Then into the Australian market with Westpac and Neo banks and theFinTech world to then more recently climate technology and payments technology combined. It never occurred to me this would be where I ended up and I realise now it’s most important to enjoy the journey.

What top tips do you have for Warwick graduates who would like to work in your sector?

Study smart. Make connections that matter and foster them. Try to consider the type of work you want to do day-to-day and then go and speak to people in those roles now or leverage the career guidance team to help. Also, feel free to reach out to alumni, they are very responsive. Hustle to find what it is you need to get answers. Then, once you make a decision on starting, give it your best. But know, there is always time to change tact in the future. It’s a journey - enjoy it.

What does a typical day look like for you?

What has been your greatest career challenge to date and how did your experience and skills help overcome it?

Probably covid. I had to find a new position to support my young family. I leveraged my network, hustled, and came through as Chief Product Officer of a FinTech that had recently got funding. Excellent outcome.

What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were applying for jobs?

It’s about the journey - not the destination. Don’t jump at shiny things, make sure you are working with good people, with visions and values that match yours, and you’ll do great.