About Erwan Gelebart

For over 15 years Erwan Gelebart has been at the heart of economic development in emerging countries, and he has successfully managed several fintech companies and financial institutions in Africa and Asia. He is acclaimed for his visionary and innovative approach, having established electronic payment systems that serve more than 17 million active users across leading groups in Mali, Madagascar, and Pakistan. In this role as CEO – Open Innovation & Fintech, he is overseeing the transformation of Axian Group’s fintech, with the ambition of supporting over 18 million mobile money customers while maintaining the Group’s position as an essential and innovative reference in the digital transformation of the continent. In June 2024, Erwan was appointed Chairman of the GSMA Mobile Money Leadership Group, which drives financial inclusion and enhances mobile money accessibility across Sub-Saharan Africa. Passionate about strategy and digital in emerging countries. Involved in digital financial services since 2008 both in Africa and Asia, Erwan Gelebart launched and scaled up two mobile money operations, turned around two more but also thrived in a regional support role in Asia. Launching new digital services that will help people in their daily lives is really what excites him. Beyond digital and innovation, he is a seasoned professional in strategy formulation and communication with a consulting background. A good strategy is not only about defining how to win market share, it is also how to execute and mobilize all resources and talents in the company to achieve excellence. The future is bright for innovation in emerging economies and he feels lucky he is part of what he sees as this very unique moment where talents and ideas emerge in this part of the world.