Patrik Nový heads KB SmartSolutions, the venture arm of Komerční banka/Société Générale that invests in and builds high-growth fintechs shaping the future of Czech banking. A serial financial-services innovator, Patrik co-founded award-winning Direct Insurance after five years steering the digital transformation of Česká pojišťovna. His earlier career began in strategy consulting with McKinsey & Company and EEIP. Patrik holds a master’s in economics from Charles University, studied in Seattle, and won the Czech Economic Society’s Young Economist award. Away from the boardroom he is most likely on a mountain trail or lining up for a half-marathon—he has organised dozens of community Terry Fox Runs. Expect straight-talk, data-driven insight and a passion for alliances that benefit both banks and start-ups.