Marlen Lawrenz, Director of Presales and Solution Consulting, EMEA at nCino, turned burnout into breakthrough, and found her place at the intersection of banking and tech.

Leaving a high-paying role to protect her well-being became the catalyst for a bold career shift into fintech. Now, she leads by asking hard questions, building strong networks, and showing that ambition and authenticity go hand in hand.

Her advice? Be curious. Think strategically. And never be intimidated by the room.

Read more from Marlen here…

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What has been your career defining moment as a woman in business?

I walked away from a well-paid job in banking because I could feel myself burning out.  The downtime was a reset moment for my career.  I’ve always been excited by solving client challenges and driving change through technology – and then the pieces fell into place: I had the great opportunity to combine my banking experience with my language skills and passion for tech, which led me to the world of Fintech.

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome as a woman in business?

"I’ve learned to be brave, speak out, ask challenging questions."

Conventional business norms often mean that men tend to think in hierarchies, while women tend to value networks & teams to get things done. I’ve learned to be brave, speak out, ask challenging questions.  

Poor leaders are intimidated by an articulate, ambitious woman, but great leaders will see potential, encourage development and empower you to perform.

What advice would you give to a younger woman looking to join your industry?

Do it! Be curious. Knowledge is power, a varied skillset is essential, and networking will open doors. Be authentic, be ambitious. There are no shortcuts though – think strategically and be bold, and the rewards will follow. And finally, don’t be intimidated by a room full of men.

If you could do one thing to accelerate the pace of change for gender equality, what would it be?

Traditional cultural and societal stereotypes can lead women to well defined, ‘supportive’ careers rather than let us explore roles in emerging sectors and future growth engines.

"Allow for experimentation, ensure mentorship and celebrate inspirational female role models."

Consequently, women still make up less than a third of workers in STEM sectors (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) and only 15% of tech start-up founders. We need to encourage early exposure to STEM subjects, allow for experimentation, ensure mentorship and celebrate inspirational female role models.

What compelled you to attend a Panelle event?

Connect with other women who are passionate about business and their industry and discuss our unique perspectives across an active, global community.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Counter insecurity with curiosity.

What’s your go-to advice for preventing burnout?

Be real about the challenges you’re facing, moderate your expectations, and listen to your body. Ask for help - and remember that this too shall pass.

Why do you think it’s important for women to help other women win?

We are the female role models for the next generation and it’s important they see successful women in leading roles in society and business and aspire to achieve the same – or more!

Finally, please put the spotlight on another woman in business who either inspires you or has pulled out the seat for you.

As much as I would love to name-check a woman, it was a male leader who recognised my potential, created a pathway for me to excel and advance my career.  

Although a woman may be more inclined to pull out the seat for another woman, for true gender equity we need more colleagues - regardless of gender - to recognise the potential of women in business.

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