What is your business industry category or specialty? 

Convera is a global Fintech specializing in corporate payment automation and FX risk management.

How do you describe your job to people outside the industry?

 I manage a corporate portfolio with over 700 companies located in North America, UK and throughout Europe. My clients have foreign exchange risk associated with either their balance sheet (hedging) or daily cash flow (payments).  

Who are your main competitors and what differentiates you from the competition? What makes you unique? 

Major banks are our largest competitors. Convera’s specific niche in the payments and FX space, providing transparency, truly separates us from the competition. What makes you unique? Convera’s white glove service, transparency, extensive global footprint and dedication to compliance keeps us in the forefront of our industry.

How was the business started? 

Western Union sold our business to private equity in 2022 and Convera was formed.  It’s a rollup of several successful corporate foreign exchange institutions across the globe over the past 30 years including Custom House, Travelex and Ruesch International.

How many employees does the business have? 

We have 2000 employees globally.

How did you end up in Atlanta? 

I moved to Atlanta in 2000, after graduating from the University of Alabama.

What is your number one business goal over the next year?

As we roll into the election season coupled with continued geopolitical uncertainty, FX market volatility will be extremely present.  Helping our clients control their costs, provide transparency and protect their budget goals is our number one priority.  

What is the best advice you have received regarding doing business with Americans/Dutch? 

It’s been a pleasure serving on the board of the chamber for many years in various roles.  It’s always been very clear that you need to be straight and to the point when doing business with any Dutch organizations. Say what you’re going do and do what you say, with value. 

Any other personal information you would like to share e.g. hobbies, special interests, family etc...

I don’t consider my job work, especially when you love what you do.  I’m a father of 4 great children, 2 boys and 2 girls, so we don’t relax very much. Spending time with family and friends is my top priority.