CEO Insights Magazine

Amidst the dynamic FinTech landscape, leaders in Strategy innately possess unyielding determination and dedication to excellence. This role is an essential one – helping companies navigate through the endless possibilities that technology can provide. With their vision, they serve as a catalyst for innovation in their organizations; n ot o nly to a chieve u nprecedented growth, but to also steer initiatives towards the company’s purpose. In this rapidly evolving industry, the significance of Strategy leaders, such as Rowie Zamora, cannot be emphasized enoug has they create a path towards a transformative future.

Rowie Zamora is the trailblazing Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) of GCASH, the Philippines' leading FinTech giant. Her professional journey is a story of innovation and purpose. With a diverse history encompassing government, nonprofit, and technology & management consulting, Rowie's path led her to embrace a role that redefines modern leadership.

Below is an excerpt of Rowie Zamora’s exclusive interview with CEO Insights ASIA magazine.

How has your professional journey been so far?

I like to think that my diverse professional background has greatly influenced and prepared me for my current role in GCASH. I’m very grateful for my previous experiences in public service, technology and strategy consulting in different countries as it helped equip me with analytical skills, problem-solving agility, and a global perspective. However it was my stint at Globe Telecom that sharpened my customer-centric approach, which was important as I transitioned to FinTech to tackle financial inclusion. These collective experiences have shaped how I rally the team towards aligning our strategies, anticipating industry shifts, and innovating customer-focused solutions. I see this stint as Chief Strategy Officer in GCASH as a great opportunity to combine everything I have done in the past and develop a plan towards a more financial inclusive future for Filipinos.

The Chief Strategy Officer in GCASH is concurrently the Chief of Staff to the CEO, which helps ensure that all priorities are consistent from the topmost level of leadership throughout the rest of the organization – establishing org-wide alignment that allows all teams to succeed. An exciting part of the role is being able to discuss exciting ideas and problem solve with everyone, and rallying everyone towards an organized way forward.

Define GCASH as an organization and its position in the market.

GCASH holds an unrivaled position as the Philippines' leading Finance Super App. Beyond providing game-changing financial services, our standout features are the accessibility, ease of use and relevance of our products- all rooted in strong customer centricity and innovation. We invest significantly in understanding our customers – ensuring a simple and pleasant app experience that addresses their needs and pain points. Our digital-first approach empowers us to introduce innovations that not only solve customer problems but also transform lives. We focus on providing financial access to traditionally excluded individuals, with security and inclusive innovation as top priorities. As a national champion for inclusion, GCASH continuously enhances financial empowerment for Filipinos across all walks of life.

As the CSO, what are the latest strategic plans you have adopted to expand/optimize operations and engage new audiences in the market?

In terms of expansion, we are focused on expanding towards those who remain underserved or unserved - wherever they are located. We will focus on helping our OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) reconnect with their families back home, as well as ensure that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMSEs) are well-supported with solutions they need. MSMEs, after all, make up the backbone of our economy. We will also provide the youth segment with an opportunity to start their financial journey early and with ease. Through financial empowerment and efficiency, we hope to drive meaningful and positive impact for our customers and the Philippine economy alike.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines/methodologies you follow to lead your team?

My leadership style is anchored in inclusivity, driven by the firm belief that no one has a monopoly on great ideas. I have always been focused on fostering an environment where these ideas flourish, where an organization is inspired towards a common goal of making an impact, where priorities are clearly set, and where plans translate into impactful business outcomes.

As a leader, I also strive to empower. In whatever leadership roles I have taken, people development has been something I have focused on a lot. I invest time and effort to nurture my team and others I work with; ensuring they have the tools to succeed and helping remove blockers that stand in their way. I try to anchor what we do on how the work impacts people who need it most. It goes beyond ensuring they excel in their roles; I encourage conscious personal growth, too.

Where do you see yourself headed in the upcoming years? What is your future roadmap?

Over the next five years, GCASH will continue on its growth phase and will be a continuing catalyst for groundbreaking innovations.

Equally, our focus remains on sustainable growth. Drawing lessons from other players, we acknowledge the importance of future-readiness. While driving business expansion, we ensure the organization is ready for what lies ahead, safeguarding against unforeseen challenges. Balancing growth and readiness, we are poised to take financial inclusion for Filipinos to greater heights.

But beyond making game-changing strides in financial technology, our mission is to empower Filipinos, helping them transform into digital citizens and unlocking new opportunities previously inaccessible. As the CSO, my continuing contribution is how GCASH stays on the path towards nation-building: priding ourselves on being a trusted platform, and one that partners with Filipinos in their financial journey.

Rowie Zamora, Chief Strategy Officer, GCASH

Zamora is a dynamic leader who is concurrently the Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) and Chief of Staff to the CEO at Gcash, the leading finance superapp in the Philippines. Rowie's illustrious career spans various roles in government, strategy consulting, and telecommunications. She holds a Master's degree from the National University of Singapore, and has completed post-graduate courses at the London School of Economics and Political Science.