Shahzeb Hassan Zaidi is an accomplished Technical Program Manager and fintech expert whose professional journey exemplifies innovation, leadership, and commitment within the dynamic fields of fintech, blockchain, and digital assets. Over the past seven years, Shahzeb has significantly contributed to the fintech landscape, leaving a lasting impact both locally in Pakistan and internationally across the UAE and Europe.
Born and raised in Pakistan, Shahzeb pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Bahria University. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future professional journey, equipping him with both technical knowledge and a passion for innovative problem-solving that would guide his career.
Early Career: Building Technological Foundations
Shahzeb’s professional journey began at Abudawood Group (P&G), where he served as a Software Engineer within the MENAP region. In this role, he designed and developed systems to streamline internal operations across human resources, finance, and supply chain management. These formative experiences provided Shahzeb with key insights into the importance of robust technology solutions and the value of collaborative teamwork.
Subsequently, Shahzeb joined IBL Group’s Transformation Office, leading strategic technology projects for notable subsidiaries, including Dunkin Donuts and Trax Logistics. Here, he launched successful e-commerce platforms, modernized financial reporting systems, and implemented advanced logistics tracking solutions. These experiences sharpened his strategic vision and deepened his expertise in technology-driven transformations.
Stepping into Strategic Fintech Roles at HBL
The next major milestone in Shahzeb’s career was joining Habib Bank Limited (HBL), one of Pakistan’s premier banks, as a Project Manager within their Fintech division. Shahzeb led groundbreaking projects in data management and digital customer experiences. Notably, he successfully launched an enterprise-wide data management solution and implemented advanced analytics dashboards that enhanced decision-making across the organization.
Additionally, he contributed significantly to HBL’s digital strategy by supporting the launch of branchless banking solutions aimed at promoting financial inclusion across underserved segments in Pakistan.
Shahzeb’s contributions were recognized internally at HBL, resulting in official acknowledgment from the bank’s leadership for delivering strategic fintech initiatives. This role was instrumental in developing Shahzeb’s passion for financial inclusion and the transformative potential of fintech solutions.
Leading Fintech Innovation at Careem (Uber)
In May 2021, Shahzeb moved to Dubai, joining Careem (Uber) as a Senior Technical Program Manager. In this global and dynamic environment, Shahzeb managed high-profile projects across fintech, blockchain, and financial inclusion domains. His responsibilities included overseeing the development of innovative payment solutions, facilitating strategic partnerships, and launching digital remittance corridors to support cross-border financial services.
At Careem, Shahzeb was instrumental in fostering significant collaborations with government-backed entities, enhancing financial inclusion, and streamlining digital payment ecosystems. He was actively involved in integrating prominent payment platforms, including launching key integrations that reshaped digital payment accessibility for millions of users across the region.
Shahzeb’s tenure at Careem was also marked by his commitment to mentorship and team development. He actively guided junior professionals, sharing insights and knowledge gained through his extensive experience, further amplifying his impact within the fintech community.
Driving Blockchain and Digital Assets Innovation at BitPanda
In January 2025, Shahzeb joined BitPanda, a leading European fintech firm, taking up the position of Senior Technical Program Manager and Onboarding Project Manager based in Dubai. At BitPanda, Shahzeb is deeply engaged in developing and implementing blockchain and digital asset solutions, focusing on strategic client onboarding and facilitating the integration of digital assets into traditional financial systems.
Shahzeb has successfully overseen significant blockchain integrations and the rollout of advanced digital asset custody and wallet infrastructure solutions. His role involves aligning innovative blockchain technologies with stringent regulatory frameworks, ensuring seamless, compliant transitions for major financial institutions and fintech organizations entering the blockchain domain.
Through his work at BitPanda, Shahzeb is effectively bridging traditional finance with blockchain-enabled innovation, actively contributing to the region’s growing adoption of blockchain technology and digital assets.
Industry Recognition and Achievements
Throughout his career, Shahzeb has received recognition both within organizations and from prominent external institutions. A significant highlight includes receiving the prestigious UAE Golden Visa from the Government of Dubai in acknowledgment of his outstanding professional contributions and expertise in fintech, blockchain, and digital innovation. This exceptional recognition underscores Shahzeb’s significant impact and leadership in driving technological advancement and financial innovation.
Additionally, Shahzeb’s professional accomplishments have been featured by Profiled.pk, a renowned Pakistani media agency, further validating his commitment to fintech innovation and community development.
Commitment to Mentorship and Professional Development
Apart from his substantial professional achievements, Shahzeb is deeply committed to mentorship and professional growth within the fintech and digital asset community. He actively engages with aspiring fintech professionals and young industry enthusiasts on professional platforms like LinkedIn, regularly sharing his knowledge, experiences, and insights. Shahzeb strongly believes in the power of collaborative growth and is dedicated to supporting the professional development of future industry leaders.
Vision and Future Aspirations
Looking forward, Shahzeb continues to envision a future where fintech, blockchain, and digital assets play critical roles in promoting financial inclusion and economic equality. He remains dedicated to exploring innovative technological solutions that further democratize financial access, enhance regulatory clarity, and drive institutional adoption of blockchain technologies.
His professional vision includes not only advancing blockchain adoption within regional markets but also fostering a culture of continuous innovation, transparent governance, and broad-based
financial inclusion. Shahzeb aims to expand his role in mentoring the next generation of fintech professionals, contributing to the broader global fintech ecosystem’s growth and maturity.
Conclusion
Shahzeb Hassan Zaidi’s professional journey illustrates a steadfast commitment to innovation, impactful leadership, and transformative technology. From his foundational roles as a software engineer to strategic fintech leadership positions at global organizations, Shahzeb has consistently leveraged his technical expertise and strategic insights to drive meaningful technological change.
As he continues to build upon his successes at BitPanda and beyond, Shahzeb remains a key influencer and advocate for fintech innovation, financial inclusion, and blockchain adoption, dedicated to creating lasting positive impacts on both industry and society
