Louise Wolf: The numbers whisperer who helped build Deriv's foundations

To celebrate our 25th Anniversary, we're highlighting the individuals who have been instrumental in shaping Deriv’s success.?

Meet Louise Wolf , our co-CFO, who joined Deriv back in 2000 as employee number three. Louise has pretty much been with Deriv since the beginning, setting up our initial accounting software right through to leading the global finance team that she heads up today. Louise's story embodies the innovation, trust and service that has driven Deriv's success over the last 25 years. Over to you, Louise.

Louise's journey: A story of growth and adaptation

"It's hard to believe it's been 25 years," Louise reflects. "Back then, it was just the three of us figuring things out as we went along." As the company's accountant, Louise was tasked with establishing the financial framework for the budding tech startup. "I was choosing accounting software, setting up processes and everything in between – it was a real hands-on learning experience."

Over the years, Louise has witnessed Deriv's remarkable transformation. "The biggest change has been the shift from a few people wearing multiple hats to having specialist teams. Now, we have dedicated experts in accounting, reporting, and payments – it's a more efficient and scalable model."

As co-CFO, Louise's leadership philosophy centres on empowering her team. "I believe in investing in people, giving them opportunities to learn and grow. That's how you build a high-performing team."

Embracing innovation, driving efficiency

Louise and her team have embraced innovation to keep pace with Deriv's rapid growth. "We've upgraded our ERP systems several times to handle increased complexity and volume. This has streamlined our processes, reduced manual tasks, and improved accuracy."

Advice for aspiring finance professionals

For those looking to thrive in the finance world — whether you’re just starting out or seeking senior leadership roles like our open VP of Financial Control position — Louise offers sage advice: "Embrace technology, hone your analytical skills, collaborate across departments, and uphold the highest ethical standards. These are the keys to success in today's fast-paced tech industry."

Looking ahead: A bright future

As Deriv looks to the future, Louise envisions continued growth and innovation. "I see Deriv remaining a market leader, and the finance department will play a crucial role in identifying new opportunities and ensuring our financial health."

Celebrating 25 years of growth and camaraderie

Reflecting on Deriv's 25th anniversary, Louise expresses gratitude for the company's supportive culture. "We have a diverse, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. This has been instrumental in my professional development."

When asked about a turning point for Deriv, Louise points to the recent pandemic. "It was a challenging time, but it also brought us closer together. The resilience and determination of our people were inspiring, and it set the stage for a period of accelerated growth."

Looking back, Louise shares a valuable lesson: "Always be open to change and never stop learning."