Amedeo Cristofaro

My Story

20+ Years Experience
Based in Florence, Italy
Bocconi MBA

Growing up in the Middle East taught me something that business school never could: that the best solutions come from understanding people, not just processes. When you live between cultures, you learn to listen differently, to see patterns others miss, and to build bridges where others see walls.

My career has taken me from an American Express internship to leading teams across three continents. I've managed $110M P&Ls, launched Europe's first SuperApp on Alipay technology, and navigated EMI licensing in markets from Switzerland to Mexico. But honestly? Those aren't the achievements I'm most proud of.

What I'm most proud of are the people I've helped grow along the way.

I believe that great teams build great products—not the other way around. That's why I've always prioritized creating environments where diverse perspectives aren't just tolerated, they're celebrated. Where junior team members feel safe to challenge ideas. Where success is measured not just in revenue, but in how many people grew into leaders themselves.

Today, I split my time between building the future of digital payments at Rebell AG and helping other leaders navigate the same challenges I've faced. Whether you're a startup founder trying to crack EMI licensing, or an established institution looking to innovate without breaking compliance—I've been there, and I'd love to help.

I speak:Italian (Native/Mother tongue)English (Fluent/Professional Working)Arabic (Elementary notions)

Professional Experience

Two decades of leadership excellence across multinational corporations and innovative startups

Chief Commercial Officer

Rebell AG

09/2024 – present
Italy
Current

Leading the development of Europe's first merchant-centric Super App built on proven Alipay+ technology

Key Achievements & Responsibilities:

SuperApp development & launch (Alipay Technology)
A2A payments network - Instant Global Acceptance (NFC)
EMI License Process - Digital Wallet - Merchants' Acquiring - Partnerships
Building the future of commerce—simple, rewarding, and mobile-first

Senior Advisor - CEO & Board member

Daytona Holding Limited

07/2024 – 11/2024
Italy
Previous

Strategic advisory role for EMI startup development

Key Achievements & Responsibilities:

EMI license process and build of the European Hub
BOD member of EMI Startup (at launch)

Co-Founder

Trentatrepercento

06/2023 – present
Italy
Previous

Hybrid platform enabling consumers to collect, manage, and utilize their purchase data

Key Achievements & Responsibilities:

Dual-sided platform combining B2C and B2B approaches
Fostering personalized relationships between producers, distributors, and third parties

Global Head of Business Development & Country Manager

Sonect AG

08/2020 - 12/2023
EU/Switzerland
Previous

E-money Institution scaling up in Switzerland & Italy

Key Achievements & Responsibilities:

Crafted strategic partnerships with Italian FIs
Merchants' networks build up with strategic partners
Gaming sector - digitisation of gaming account 'cash out'
IFPE license in Mexico
Successfully scaled operations in Switzerland to over 4 million users
Led successful fundraising campaigns with Credem, IAG, and Doorway

EMEA Managing Director

Wells Fargo Bank

12/2011 - 07/2019
Europe
Previous

Region Head EMEA Global Payment Services FIs

Key Achievements & Responsibilities:

Achieved CAGR 20% - Market share 12% - P&L $100 Million
Implemented new organizational model across six countries
Market share growth while rightsizing customer portfolio

CEO Italy & S. Europe Head of Cash & Trade

Standard Chartered Bank

02/2008 - 11/2011
Europe
Previous

Member of European Leadership team

Key Achievements & Responsibilities:

Launched new sales strategy for trade finance product B2B2C
Supervised operations in Italy, Spain, Romania & Turkey
Transaction Banking P&L - $50 Million
Successfully integrated American Express Bank operations

Managing Director & Head of FIs

American Express Bank Ltd

04/1996 - 02/2008
Milan, Vienna, New York
Previous

Various roles from Intern to Managing Director across EMEA & US

Key Achievements & Responsibilities:

Reached over 20% market share in Italy by 2007
Multiple leadership roles across different regions
Product development and business expansion
Disaster recovery leadership post 9/11

How I Can Help

I partner with organizations navigating the complex intersection of traditional finance and fintech innovation.

EMI Licensing & Compliance

Navigate complex regulatory environments across Europe and Mexico with confidence.

Cross-Border Payments

Design payment systems that work seamlessly across international markets.

Startup Scaling

Turn your fintech idea into a market-ready product with proven methodologies.

Team Building & Mentoring

Build high-performing, diverse teams that deliver exceptional results.

Ideal for:

Fintech StartupsFinancial InstitutionsPayment CompaniesDigital Banks

Ready to Transform Your Business?

Let's have a conversation about your challenges and explore how my experience can help you succeed.

Let's Talk

Let's Connect

Ready to transform your fintech vision into reality? Let's discuss how my expertise can accelerate your success and drive meaningful results.

Get in Touch

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