Chris Skinner

Founder of Shaping Tomorrow, Bestselling Author of “Intelligent Money” & “Digital For Good” & Top 50 Global Thought Leader

Chris Skinner’s Biography:

Chris Skinner has spent more than thirty years at the frontier of finance and technology, advising banks, fintech firms and technology companies globally on how to adapt to digital disruption and evolving customer expectations. He is widely regarded as one of the key thinkers in financial services transformation, combining deep industry experience with a clear, incisive understanding of emerging trends such as digital banking, blockchain, AI and regulatory change. His insight is rooted in hands on work with major institutions, giving him a practical perspective on what works and what does not in real world financial systems.

As a prolific author, Chris has published several influential books such as “Intelligent Money”, “Digital for Good”, “Doing Digital” and more, that have helped define how the world conceptualises banking and money in the digital age. His titles explore everything from the business models of modern banks to the social implications of fintech and the future of money. His writing is widely used by leaders, regulators and innovators as a roadmap for navigating disruption, restructuring legacy systems and building customer-centred, technology-driven institutions.

Chris is also a network builder and community leader in finance. In 2004, he founded The Financial Services Club, a European networking forum that brings together senior banking executives, fintech entrepreneurs, regulators and academics to debate the future of finance. Through the Club and his consultancy and content platform The Finanser, he continuously fosters dialogue between established players and innovators. Over the years, he has held executive-level positions in technology and financial firms such as Unisys and NCR, giving him broad insight into both legacy systems and cutting-edge development.

Beyond his advisory and writing activities, Chris speaks frequently on global stages, engages as a commentator in media and consults for organisations seeking to future proof their financial strategy. His work has influenced regulation, business strategy and fintech product direction around the world. Known for his clarity, strategic vision and ability to translate complex technical and regulatory issues into actionable plans, he remains one of the most sought after voices in global finance.

Why Hire Chris Skinner?

Chris Skinner is consistently recognised as one of the most influential thinkers in fintech, having been named a Top 50 Global Thought Leader and awarded distinctions such as Financial Markets Advisory of the Year and a Global 100 Lifetime Achievement Award. His presentations offer clarity on the major forces redefining financial services, including intelligent finance, embedded banking, digital identity and resilient infrastructures.

His TEDx Talk, “Kids Creating the Future Bank“, demonstrates his ability to connect with broad audiences and inspire future-focused thinking. Chris tailors his keynotes to the strategic priorities of each organisation, ensuring audiences gain practical direction and a renewed understanding of the path ahead. His insights support leaders in driving innovation responsibly, building competitiveness and shaping a financially inclusive future.

Chris Skinner’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Chris Skinner’s inspirational career:

• 2025 – Continued to deliver high-profile keynote speeches worldwide, advising global financial institutions and industry leaders on the future of digital finance.
• 2024 – Published Intelligent Money, offering guidance on the changing financial landscape and consumer decision making.
• 2023 – Awarded Financial Markets Advisory of the Year at the IEE 100 Awards for his influence in global fintech.
• 2023 – Named in the Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on FinTech, recognising his continued industry impact.
• 2023 – Received a Global 100 Lifetime Achievement Award for shaping the future of digital finance.
• 2022 – Published Digital for Good, focused on the role of technology in delivering positive financial and social outcomes.
• 2020 – Released Doing Digital, helping banks successfully adopt digital strategies.
• 2018 – Published Digital Human, examining the world of hyper-connectivity and the financial systems of the future.
• 2017 – Became Global Ambassador for Innovate Finance and published Digital Bank, now widely used by financial leaders.
• 2016 – Appointed CEO of The Finanser and Chairman of Nordic Future Innovation, further cementing his leadership in fintech.
• 2016 – Published ValueWeb, exploring blockchain and mobile innovation in financial services.
• 2004 – Founded The Financial Services Club, a key forum for senior banking leaders.
• 1998 – Vice President at Unisys, advancing new technology solutions for financial organisations.
• 1995 – Director at NCR, contributing to early digital banking developments.