We were privileged to catch up with Dexter Cousins this week, 'The Voice of Fintech' and CEO of Tier One People; an executive search company that started in 2016 and is based out of Lake Macquarie and Sydney.
Recognised globally as a leading voice on Fintech talent, Dexter is also host and creator of Australia's no1 Fintech podcast, Fintech Chatter.
How did your business come to life?
"I had always wanted to run my own business. I could see Fintech would be huge in Australia and there was an opportunity to get in before any other competitors. So I took the plunge in 2016 and started Tier One People. The market was still immature at the time, but it gave me time to build a network and deep industry connections."
What's your favourite thing about what you do?
"The people. I get to spend everyday meeting, helping and supporting some of the world's best Fintech companies and founders. There's nothing more exhilarating than seeing founders build a successful business. And I've made so many friends, I feel blessed."
What's your superpower?
"Being a good human being who cares about others and doing the right thing. It makes a big difference!"
What are you most looking forward to about Thriday?
"Having control of my relationship with the ATO."
What's next for Tier One People?
"Whenever I'm asked about future plans I always use the tale of the Mexican Fisherman who meets a Wall Street banker. The banker's advice is the Fisherman should build an empire, sell the business and then retire so he can go fishing every day (which is what he already does.) I absolutely love what I do and can see myself doing this until I die - To use a David Brent quote: 'If you are headed in the right direction, just keep walking'."