Fintech leader recognized among leaders in her industry

13 December 2022

This week’s up-and-comer is Nancy Schempp, senior vice president of partner services and delivery at Pathward. She was recently named to American Banker’s list of most influential women in payments, next. The list recognizes those younger than 40 who have shown a strong talent for leadership and an expertise in their respective fields.

Name: Nancy Schempp

Age: 39

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

This is a particularly relevant question as both my husband and I work remotely, so we have a high degree of flexibility in where we live. Family, first – both my husband and I have a lot of family in town and it’s nice to have that support system. Beyond that, there are quite a few reasons: the tax structure, the cost of living, the availability of sports we enjoy – hockey! – to mention some.

What do you like best about your job?

It’s hard for me to choose one thing. The combination of incredibly talented, smart and supportive employees in addition to a very dynamic, relevant and challenging business keeps me motivated, learning and engaged.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I entered banking straight out of college looking for something to bridge my expected year-long gap before high school. I quickly changed my mind – and career path! That said, the Banking as a Service, or BaaS, industry is very different from traditional banking. To be honest, when I applied to Pathward – formerly known as MetaBank – I didn’t realize how distinct BaaS is compared to the more traditional banking I would build my career around. However, I am very grateful, as BaaS is such an exciting, forward-looking industry that offers products and services to otherwise under- or unbanked individuals and businesses.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Dynamic, cooperative and creative.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I am working on improving my green thumb. I recently planted an indoor herb garden in my office, so I’m hoping to grow some cooking herbs while I work!

What is your favorite way to give back to your community?

I like to give back to the community in ways where we can involve our kids and give back as a family. Last week we volunteered at Sonia Sotomayor (Elementary) for Project Warm-Up. We have volunteered a few times with Habitat for Humanity, St. Francis House and Feeding South Dakota to name a few. I think creating value for the community as a family helps us stay grounded while making a difference in small ways.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

Trader Joe’s! I was in Rochester, Minnesota recently and was surprised to see that they could get one and we can’t – but at least we could get some shopping!

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

I would like to open up another indoor ice facility in the city – preferably on the south side. Other communities in the Midwest have better offerings, and our family is very involved in the local hockey community. Brandon Valley, Harrisburg, Tea and other nearby communities do not have access to indoor ice facilities other than sharing the space we have with Scheels IcePlex. Creating more space for new families to be introduced to sports that are so natural to our area, I believe will benefit youth throughout the community and state.