Finastra, a global leader in financial services software applications, has confirmed a significant leadership shift, with Chris Walters set to take over as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The appointment follows the announcement that Simon Paris, who has led the company for nearly a decade, will step down from his role.
Under Simon Paris’s leadership, Finastra achieved substantial growth and innovation, solidifying its position as a key player in the financial technology sector. Notably, Paris oversaw the company’s merger of Misys and D+H in 2017, which created Finastra, and drove the company’s foray into Open Finance. During his tenure, Finastra expanded its client base to over 8,000 customers across 130 countries, including 45 of the world’s top 50 banks.
In addition to significant customer growth, Paris’s leadership saw Finastra recognised as a global leader in Generative AI, with the company advancing almost 50 capabilities from ideation to production. The firm also garnered numerous accolades, including being named the #1 Banking Technology company and the #2 Financial Technology company worldwide, with its products and culture receiving multiple awards.
Chris Walters, the new CEO, brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles, most recently as CEO of Pluralsight and Avantax, a leading firm in the financial services sector. Walters’s leadership has been instrumental in driving innovation and improving company performance. He successfully orchestrated the sale of Avantax, following a period of notable growth. Walters also previously held senior leadership roles, including Partner at McKinsey & Company and COO of Bloomberg Industry Verticals Group.
Speaking about his appointment, Walters expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead Finastra at this pivotal time. “I’m excited to join Finastra and impressed by the significant progress made under Simon’s leadership,” Walters said. “I look forward to working alongside our talented team to drive sustainable growth, deliver enhanced value to our customers, and continue to build on Finastra’s outstanding achievements.”
Finastra has positioned itself well for future success, with continued focus on innovation and growth, particularly in the evolving field of financial technology. The company achieved impressive financial results in 2024, including record performance and double-digit growth in Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR), solidifying its leadership in the global market.
Simon Paris reflected on his time with Finastra, expressing pride in the company’s journey. “It has been a privilege to lead Finastra through such a transformative period. I am confident that under Chris’s leadership, Finastra will continue to thrive and make an even greater impact,” Paris commented. “I leave proud of our achievements and excited for the future of the company.”
As Finastra enters a new strategic phase, both Paris and Walters will work together during the transition period to ensure a seamless handover and continued success in 2025 and beyond.
