CEO Insights Magazine

In the modern era, where businesses are dominated by technology and its innovations, the role of a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is essential in ensuring organizational success. Playing a key role at the centre of Ammana FinTech’s tech operations is Iqbal Maulana. Presently serving as the CTO, Iqbal Maulana is leading technological innovations that have revolutionized the lending experience. His expertise spans from coding roots to spearheading the development of a secure and scalable lending platform, ensuring seamless operations while adhering to stringent financial regulations. Before Ammana, Iqbal was the VP of Engineering for Securities Crowdfunding, a role similar to his current one but in a different sector. Additionally, he served as IT Project Manager for Digital Micro Bank, where he initiated the digital micro bank from the IT perspective. This involved implementing core banking systems, infrastructure, security, and development. Today, under his leadership, Ammana has enhanced user experiences for lenders and borrowers alike, positioning the firm at the forefront of digital financial solutions.

Iqbal's career trajectory reflects a journey marked by diverse achievements across sectors. Notably, he engineered advanced systems for a prominent TV station in Indonesia and undertook pivotal roles in national service projects. His leadership extends to global platforms, where he serves as an expert coach for the Asean Capabilities Competition and the World Skills Competition, showcasing his comprehensive skill set in technical prowess, project management, and leadership excellence. His dedication to continuous improvement and innovation has not only propelled Ammana to new heights but has also contributed significantly to the broader FinTech landscape. Iqbal's strategic vision and commitment to technological excellence make him a key figure in shaping the future of digital finance, ensuring that Ammana remains a leader in the industry.

Let’s hear from him in this one on one interaction.

As the CTO, how do you protect data security and privacy against external threats?

We prioritize your data security and privacy by implementing cutting-edge protections to safeguard your information. To this end, we employ advanced encryption techniques to scramble data, ensuring it remains secure and inaccessible to unauthorized users. Access to your data is strictly limited, and we regularly conduct thorough security tests to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Our most critical systems are kept separate on the network to further enhance security and mitigate risks. Additionally, we have a robust management system in place that oversees all security measures, providing transparency and assurance on how your information is handled at all times. This comprehensive approach ensures your data is protected from external threats and cyberattacks. Our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of data security and privacy means that you can trust us to keep your information safe, confidential, and secure at every level.

What are your thoughts on the evolving technology trends in the industry, and how would you describe their impact on your organization?

The world of lending fintech is constantly evolving with new technologies emerging frequently, and the risks associated with lending can change rapidly. For fintech lenders, navigating this dynamic landscape requires robust and adaptive risk management solutions. However, implementing these advanced solutions can be costly and resource-intensive. The challenge lies in finding a balance between effectiveness and cost-efficiency, ensuring that risk management does not compromise financial stability. By strategically investing in the right tools and methodologies, fintech lenders can effectively mitigate risk while maintaining financial prudence. This careful balance allows them to focus on their core mission: delivering innovative, accessible, and efficient financial services to their customers. Additionally, staying ahead of technological trends and incorporating cutting-edge solutions helps fintech companies enhance their competitive edge, ensuring they can respond swiftly to market changes and continue to meet the evolving needs of their clients. Proactive adaptation to technological advancements not only strengthens their market position but also fosters trust and loyalty among their customer base.

Can you share your leadership approach with us? What principles or methodologies do you adhere to as a leader?

My leadership approach emphasizes continuous learning to stay abreast of industry trends. I actively engage in conferences, online events, and social media platforms to connect with experts and absorb best practices. This ongoing education ensures that I can effectively guide my team toward a future of seamless and accessible digital banking. By staying informed and adaptable, I strive to foster innovation and maintain a forward-thinking mindset within the organization. This approach enables us to meet evolving customer needs and remain competitive in the rapidly changing financial landscape. By prioritizing continuous learning and staying connected with industry developments, I can lead my team to navigate challenges and seize opportunities, ensuring sustained growth and success in the digital banking sector. Encouraging my team to engage in similar learning activities and stay updated with industry advancements also fosters a culture of collective growth and resilience, positioning us to excel in an ever-evolving market.

How do you stay current with industry trends to lead your organization into the future?

FinTech is an exhilarating journey, with new developments emerging at a breakneck pace. To stay ahead, I need to be a perpetual learner. Conferences, online webinars, and industry blogs are invaluable resources for staying updated on the latest trends and regulations. However, learning is not a solitary activity. I actively engage with other FinTech experts at events and online forums, creating a continuous exchange of knowledge and ideas. This dynamic interaction keeps my mind energized with fresh insights and helps me navigate the ever-evolving FinTech landscape. By maintaining a proactive approach to learning and networking, I ensure that I am well-equipped to steer my organization toward future opportunities and challenges. This commitment to ongoing education and collaboration allows me to remain agile and innovative in a sector characterized by rapid change and constant innovation. By fostering a culture of continuous learning within my organization, I empower my team to adapt and thrive, ensuring that we not only keep pace with the industry but also set new standards in the FinTech world.

What is the future direction you are aiming for?

The future of digital banking technology holds immense promise, and I am enthusiastic about being a part of its evolution! I envision a future where banking is seamless, personalized, and accessible to all. Picture a scenario where financial tools anticipate your needs, offering budgeting insights and suggesting investment opportunities tailored to your goals. Security would be robust yet seamlessly integrated, and managing finances would be as effortless as checking your phone.

My goal is to contribute to this vision by developing innovative solutions that empower individuals to take charge of their financial well-being. This could involve leveraging artificial intelligence for personalized financial advice or designing secure and intuitive interfaces for convenient financial management on mobile platforms. Ultimately, I aim to help create a world where digital banking technology simplifies and enriches our financial experiences, making everyday financial tasks smoother and more rewarding.

Iqbal Maulana, CTO, Ammana

Iqbal Maulana is committed to advancing digital banking technology, envisioning a future where banking is seamless, personalized, and accessible. With a focus on innovation, he specializes in solutions for financial empowerment and user-friendly interfaces for managing finances on mobile platforms. His goal is to simplify financial management and enhance accessibility, ensuring individuals can easily control their financial well-being in an evolving digital landscape.