How Banking Circle’s New Chairman Will Shape Global Growth

Former UBS and ING CEO Ralph Hamers has joined Banking Circle Group as Chairman of its Group Board of Directors.

Taking the role from 20 April, Ralph’s appointment is a move that starts the next chapter of strategic growth for the fast-scaling financial technology platform.

It also reflects Banking Circle’s ambition to deepen its global footprint and strengthen its role as a key player in the financial infrastructure layer that underpins modern cross-border commerce.

What is Banking Circle Group?

Founded to deliver faster, more efficient infrastructure at the clearing and settlement layer of the global financial system, Banking Circle serves an extensive client base that includes Payment Service Providers, banks, fintechs and global marketplaces. 

It provides instant and seamless cross-border payment capabilities, powered by a surrounding ecosystem of value-added applications and regulatory reach.

Having exceeded €500m (US$584.2m) in revenue, the group continues to see strong client adoption and international expansion – driven by a technology-first model.

Its focus on building digital foundations for global commerce has helped it become a key enabler for growth-stage and established financial institutions alike.

Ralph Hamers: A leader in global transformation

As the former Group CEO of UBS and ING, Ralph brings more than three decades of experience leading large-scale financial institutions and overseeing complex, multi-jurisdictional regulatory environments. 

Alongside his boardroom credentials, he has advised growth-stage fintechs such as Arta and Grab – experience that bridges traditional banking governance with the agility of the FinTech ecosystem.

“For more than a decade, Banking Circle Group has innovated at the intersection of banking, technology and regulation,” Ralph says. 

“The team has built a one-of-a-kind platform and ecosystem, delivering real and compounding value to clients as they scale. 

“I look forward to joining the board and partnering with the team and other stakeholders as we enter this exciting next chapter of growth – continuing to strengthen the platform, expanding globally and delivering even greater value to our clients.”

Banking Circle Group Co-Founder and CEO Anders la Cour describes the appointment as both a milestone and a strategic reinforcement for the company.

“What began as a small team with a bold idea has become a technology-led global financial infrastructure leader, growing rapidly with expanding profitability,” he says.

“I am immensely proud of the achievements of all my colleagues, and the trust that our clients have placed in us on the journey. 

“Ralph’s experience will be critical as we continue to scale the business and prepare for the next phase of growth. We are very excited to welcome him into the business.”

In joining Banking Circle, Ralph is now part of a governance ecosystem that includes influential figures from across global finance and investment. 

On behalf of the Advisory Board, Jim Snabe says: “After years of development Banking Circle Group has reached the next pivotal moment and is ready for global scale. 

“Ralph’s appointment brings invaluable experience and perspective to help innovate and expand the Group globally.”

Christian Shin Andersen, Partner at EQT (the majority owner of Banking Circle Group), adds: “Ralph’s appointment underscores our commitment to building world-class governance around one of Europe’s most important financial infrastructure platforms. 

“His track record navigating complex regulatory ecosystems and scaling global financial institutions will be a real asset as the group continues to expand.”