Community & Blackcat Insights

Payment & FinTech consultant

Davor Zilic is a skilled Payment & FinTech consultant (ex-BCG, Deutsche Bank, PwC), with a strong focus on regulatory compliance and risk management. Noteworthy projects as an independent consultant include serving as an external AML consultant for a leading global advisory firm, multiple payment optimization assessments for different companies, supporting licensing efforts and enhancing compliance strategies for multiple financial entities, primarily in the EU and GCC regions. Expertise in AML/CFT regulations, financial crime compliance, strategy consulting, payment product management and payment processing solutions drives impactful outcomes in the FinTech sector. Proficient in market analysis, compliance documentation, and business process optimization to streamline operations and establish robust frameworks and operating frameworks. Currently enrolled in the postgraduate university doctoral program, and holds a M.Sc. Degree in business economics, with multitude of external certifications from world's leading business schools (e.g. Insead and Oxford Said Business School).

Barrister and corporate counsel

Hamna Zain is a UK-qualified Barrister and corporate counsel with over 14 years of experience advising startups, fintech companies, SaaS platforms, and international businesses on cross-border transactions, regulatory matters, digital payments, fraud risk, compliance, and commercial contracting. She has worked with multinational corporations and high-growth businesses across Europe, the UK, the Middle East, and the US, supporting clients on payment regulation, governance, dispute-risk management, and operational legal strategy. In addition to advisory work, she also conducts corporate training on compliance, risk management, and contract strategy for global teams.

Chief Technology Officer

Olegs Cernisevs is a Chief Technology Officer at Blackcat. He drives innovation in product development and technology optimization. His extensive background spans banking and payment services, with notable roles at PrivatBank, First Swiss Card, and the Acquiring Committee of the Association of Commercial Banks of Latvia. Olegs has played a pivotal role in shaping IT projects for various European financial institutions. His impact was celebrated by PayTech Awards – in 2023, Olegs received an award in nomination PayTech Leadership. He holds a Doctor of Science degree and has published several scientific papers on fintech-related topics. Furthermore, Olegs is certified in anti-money laundering management and cybersecurity, underscoring his comprehensive expertise in the financial technology sector. In 2025, Olegs was recognised by the Federation of European Risk Management Associations (FERMA) as rimap® Certified – Professional Level.