Thomas Schulze is a global, innovative, and strategic P&L-oriented executive with over 25 years of experience driving growth, product innovation, and change management in high-growth, emerging, and mature organizations. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a unique ability to lead cross-functional teams across various regions, including North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. His expertise spans multiple industries, including FinTech, cybersecurity, software and hardware security (HSM) solutions, and banking technology.
Currently serving as Senior Vice President and Managing Director for the Americas at Utimaco, Thomas leads the company’s efforts in the rapidly evolving fields of HSM/data protection, secure payments, and key management solutions. Since joining Utimaco in April 2021, he has been instrumental in growing the organization from 65 to approximately 100 employees. He successfully integrated two key acquisitions—GEOBRIDGE and Realsec—into the company’s matrix structure. Under his leadership, Utimaco’s Latin American business doubled to $12 million in revenue, and the company secured over 10 new clients in highly competitive markets.
Before joining Utimaco, Thomas held several high-level leadership roles at Diebold Nixdorf, where he oversaw global and regional banking hardware and firmware product strategies. As Vice President of Systems for the Americas Region, he managed cross-continental teams in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Ecuador, and Brazil, fostering alignment between regional teams and global headquarters. He was responsible for creating product roadmaps, driving technology strategies, and acting as the voice of the customer in strategic planning processes. His work in this role was pivotal in aligning new product developments with regional market needs.
Thomas spent 14 years with Wincor Nixdorf in various roles of increasing responsibility. He served as General Manager of the Banking Segment in the U.S., where he was accountable for the company’s P&L in the region and led direct and channel sales teams. During his time as Account Director for Wells Fargo, he significantly enhanced the client relationship by introducing next-generation ATM technology and expanding the company’s footprint into software sales and implementation. Earlier in his career, Thomas worked as Sales Director in Germany and as Regional Director for Marketing & Business Development in Asia-Pacific, where he led the design and launch of the Innovation Center Asia-Pacific in Singapore and developed a technology roadmap for the region.
Thomas’s extensive experience in global sales and marketing management, coupled with his ability to lead teams across a broad range of functions—such as Sales, Pre-Sales, Marketing, Business Development, Supply Chain, Professional Services, R&D, Finance, Legal, and Human Resources—has positioned him as a leader in international business development. He has been a part of several M&A teams and has successfully integrated acquired companies into existing operations, ensuring cultural and operational alignment.
Educated in Germany, Thomas holds a Dipl. Kfm. (the German equivalent of an MBA) from the University of Paderborn, with a focus on Business Administration, Economics, and Computing. His leadership competencies include strategic thinking, analytical problem-solving, fostering teamwork, and building collaborative relationships across global teams. He is particularly skilled at simplifying complexity, establishing focus, and driving results.
With a career that spans multiple continents and industries, Thomas Schulze is a seasoned executive with deep expertise in global business management, particularly in the areas of cybersecurity, banking technology, and FinTech. His ability to manage large-scale operations, develop customer-focused strategies, and navigate the complexities of international markets makes him an invaluable asset to any organization seeking to expand and innovate in today’s fast-paced technological landscape. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Thomas continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of technology and finance.
In addition to his professional achievements, Thomas is passionate about skiing and photography, enjoying these hobbies in his spare time. His personal motto, “Be fearful of mediocrity,” encapsulates his drive for excellence in both his personal and professional life.
Character:
Thomas Schulze is a dedicated and results-driven leader who believes in the constant pursuit of excellence, striving to avoid mediocrity in all endeavors. His integrity, humility, and strong work ethic have earned him the respect and trust of colleagues and clients alike.
Knowledge:
With over 25 years of expertise in FinTech, cybersecurity, and banking technology, Thomas has a deep understanding of product innovation, growth strategies, and global markets. He is proficient in leading complex, cross-functional teams and developing solutions that align with both business objectives and customer needs.
Strategic:
Thomas is a strategic thinker who excels in simplifying complex business challenges and crafting innovative solutions that drive long-term growth. His ability to manage global operations and integrate acquisitions has positioned him as a leader in both high-growth and mature markets.
Communication:
An effective communicator, Thomas builds collaborative relationships across cultures and departments, fostering teamwork and aligning diverse teams toward common goals. His skill in translating customer feedback into actionable strategies ensures that product development aligns with market demands.
