In a world where digital transformation often speaks louder than the people behind it, Vassos Aristodemou stands as a quiet yet enduring force in Cyprus’s technology sector. As CEO and founder of NETinfo Plc, he has spent over two decades building not only one of the island’s most influential fintech firms, but also a leadership legacy grounded in vision, trust and long-term thinking.

When you first introduced digital banking solutions, many people were hesitant — even resistant. What did you rely on to win their trust? How did you convince traditional institutions to embrace change before the world was ready?

At the start, we were just five people without a single client. In 2000, digital banking was still a foreign concept in Cyprus. Our first opportunity came through a German partner — we implemented a system for one of the local Cyprus banks. But when that company suddenly ceased operations, we were left with a challenge. We asked the bank for a year to build something better, from scratch. They trusted us, and we delivered a solution using open architecture, built entirely in-house. We gained no profit, but earned invaluable experience. That success helped us approach other banks — and eventually, one of the biggest Cyprus banks, who took a chance on us based on our vision and delivery, even in the face of stiff global competition.

As a founder and CEO, where do your best ideas usually come from? Is it the result of structured problem-solving, or do ideas emerge in unexpected moments?

It’s really a combination of both. Many of our ideas come directly from client needs — real-world challenges that require tailored solutions. At the same time, we invest heavily in research and development, which allows us to explore emerging technologies and anticipate what banks will need next. Some of our most successful features, like instant money transfers using just a phone number, came from understanding how people really want to interact with banking services. It’s not just about problem-solving — it’s about observing behaviour and staying ahead of expectations.

You’ve built a company that continues to evolve. How do you keep learning? Where do you find the time, the focus, or the resources to stay sharp in such a demanding field?

In the beginning, I wore every hat — development, sales, presentations. That taught me how the entire system works. Today, I rely on our dedicated R&D and sales teams, who bring constant feedback from the market. We carefully assess new trends and client requirements, and we evolve based on that insight. Learning is built into our structure — from product updates to direct dialogue with customers. You can’t afford to stand still in this industry.

Are there individuals – local or global – whom you personally consider strong examples of business leadership? What qualities in them resonate with you?

Steve Jobs has always stood out to me — not just for his innovation, but for his boldness to try new things. I admire people who take risks with clarity and purpose. I started NETinfo at 45, after two decades in government. It wasn’t about following a trend — it was about daring to create something meaningful.

For someone starting a business today, what are the most honest, experience-based pieces of advice you would give – the kind you wish you’d heard earlier in your own journey?

Be prepared to take risks — but make them calculated. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Work hard, stay open-minded, and really listen to the people around you. Let your team help shape the company. And lead by example — whether it’s how you travel, how you treat others, or how you show up every day. You can’t do it alone. Your people are everything.

Interview by Kateryna Bila

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