Knowing how to access jobs in FinTech is essential for a rewarding, future-proof career. It’s well known that top professionals now have a potent mix of business and technical understanding, which is leaving competitors behind.
With that in mind, let’s examine what FinTech employers are looking for and how you can stand out with the Master in Financial Technology.
Is FinTech a good career?
FinTech—short for financial technology—is on the rise. Its global market size now exceeds $200 billion and we only expect that number to increase. Traditional banking and investment models face disruption from this explosive new field, likewise creating a demand for professionals who navigate financial and technological arenas with finesse.
One of the biggest draws of a FinTech career is the diversity of roles available. Whether you’re interested in product development, blockchain and cryptocurrency, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science or risk and compliance, you’ll find a niche suiting your skill set. What’s more, FinTech companies vary from agile startups to established financial institutions and technology giants. So you’ll be able to move across areas as you grow.
FinTech is the area of study for future-proofing your profile.
Having expertise in modern technologies like blockchain, Artificial Intelligence and digital payments keeps you relevant, no matter your job. FinTech professionals often work on cutting-edge projects and contribute to meaningful innovation in how people and businesses manage money. Moreover, the skills you gain are relevant in HealthTech, PropTech and InsurTech.
What are FinTech employers looking for?
Jobs in FinTech will ask for an increasing number of soft skills. A recent report by Deloitte predicts a focus on adaptability, strategic focus and a proactive approach to change—especially as traditional financial roles evolve and intermediaries lose ground. Institutions will need to innovate and stay agile amid regulatory fragmentation, meaning FinTech employees must embrace peer-to-peer collaboration.
As for adaptability, much of the challenge for employees lie in upskilling. Here are five essential hard skills with that last point in mind.
1. Software development
Still the backbone of most FinTech innovation, software development remains the most sought-after skill across the industry. Full-stack development is now favored over siloed frontend or backend expertise, reflecting the industry’s need for versatility and end-to-end product ownership. Developers must combine technical proficiency with design thinking and architectural insight, as they contribute to both functionality and strategy.
2. Blockchain technology
Blockchain is reshaping financial systems with the ongoing surge of cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance. Secure, transparent transactions are becoming the norm. Consequently, there’s been a rise of 30% in demand for blockchain developers, showing the value of specialized knowledge. You can gain favor with employers by understanding distributed systems, cryptography and coding languages that can build and scale decentralized solutions.
3. Data science & AI
FinTech companies need professionals who can turn vast information streams into actionable insights. You’ll do well with proficiency in machine learning, big data analytics, Artificial Intelligence. According to McKinsey, data-driven financial firms are 23 times more likely to acquire customers, underscoring data-professionals’ competitive advantage.
4. Cybersecurity
FinTech faces serious security challenges and cyberattacks become more complex. Accenture reports a recent 23% rise in spending on cybersecurity, reflecting the growing need to protect sensitive financial data and digital infrastructure. Companies now need FinTech professionals who are well-versed in compliance and crisis response. They’ll also need an understanding of encryption methods and security operations management.
5. DevOps & automation
Speed and scalability have become critical in FinTech operations. As a result, expertise in CI/CD pipelines, containerization tools and infrastructure is highly sought after. By supporting agile development cycles and leveraging automation, DevOps teams help streamline operations, minimize human error and efficiently process large volumes of financial data.
6. Cloud solutions
Careers in FinTech cloud solutions involve building scalable, secure, and cost-effective infrastructures using platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, and DigitalOcean. Professionals focus on compliance, data analytics, AI integration, and hybrid environments, helping startups innovate rapidly, manage financial data securely, and deliver seamless, efficient services to customers worldwide.
7. Virtual assets
Careers in virtual assets involve managing digital payment systems, ensuring regulatory compliance, and mitigating risks like money laundering and fraud. Professionals work with blockchain technology, drive financial innovation, support secure electronic transactions, and help integrate volatile digital assets into mainstream finance while prioritizing consumer protection and transparency.
How the Master in Financial Technology can help you
Want to access the best jobs in FinTech? Our Master in Financial Technology could be the answer. Through a dynamic and practical education, you’ll understand the intersection of finance, data science and emerging technologies. Throughout this in-person program in Madrid, you’ll get hands-on experience with industry leaders, startups and global institutions, focusing on blockchain, AI, cybersecurity, quantum computing and cloud solutions.
What sets this program apart is its emphasis on customization and impact. You’ll tailor your learning through specialized concentrations in areas such as Innovation in Banking, Virtual Assets, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence. And with plenty of immersive experiences like Datathons, Hackathons, the Impact Xcelerator, and global immersion weeks, you’ll learn to put your knowledge to good use.
Aiming to launch your own venture? Want to innovate within an established financial institution? Enroll with IE School of Science & Technology to gain the strategic mindset and technical expertise you need to succeed.
Benjamin is the editor of Uncover IE. His writing is featured in the LAMDA Verse and Prose Anthology Vol. 19, The Primer and Moonflake Press. Benjamin provided translation for “FalseStuff: La Muerte de las Musas”, winner of Best Theatre Show at the Max Awards 2024.
Benjamin was shortlisted for the Bristol Old Vic Open Sessions 2016 and the Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize 2023.
