Here’s an eye-opening stat: “By 2030, 75% of the workforce is going to be millennials and Gen Zs,” said Christina Daves. “So, we’ve got to lead in a way that they want to be led.” 

But knowing what that entails isn’t always easy. That’s where Daves, a public relations strategist and lifestyle expert, comes in. She will be hosting the Executive Series session, “Empowering the Next Generation of Payment Industry Leaders,” April 29 at Smarter Faster Payments 2025 in New Orleans. 

“We have to nurture their values to really attract that top talent and future-proof the leadership pipeline,” Daves said, encouraging today’s leaders to attend the session to gain insights. 

This is part of a concerted effort by Nacha to “bring together the seasoned experts who have navigated the complexities of all these payment systems and then introduce them to the emerging talents who are shaping the future of these industries,” said Ashley Mustico, Nacha’s Director of Education and Accreditation. Nacha, she said, would like to see “a knowledge exchange, which we hope will spark fresh ideas. So, the goal is not just to equip the new generation with tools, but to also help the experienced professionals tap into those fresh perspectives to keep them ahead of the curve.” 

Payments is always packed with networking opportunities and Daves encouraged young attendees to make the most of it, telling them to, “Be intentional about it. Network with purpose. Bring value to somebody.” 

Kara Ford can tell you a thing or two about networking. At last year’s Payments her employer at the time was an exhibitor with a booth right by the expo center door. Ford signed up for as much booth duty as possible and “placed myself right at the front of the expo doors and took the opportunity to meet anybody who was willing to make eye contact with me and talk about payments.” 

Ford, who won Nacha’s inaugural 15 Under 40 Award in 2024, is now Executive Director of Digital Payments at USAA. Joining Mustico and Daves on Nacha’s Payments SmartCast podcast, Ford said it pays to be persistent. 

“I spent every morning, afternoon and evening in that expo hall meeting individuals, talking about faster payments, talking about my career and my journey,” said Ford. 

That’s just the attitude Daves likes to see, and it’s at the heart of her message to up-and-coming professionals. 

“You do know a lot. You might be younger, you might be new to the profession, but you do bring a lot of value to more seasoned professionals,” said Daves. “So, go in and own it.” 

This 365 Podcast episode is brought to you by our sponsor Form3. 

Much more was discussed, and you can listen to the complete podcast below. 

For details on Smarter Faster Payments 2025, visit the conference website.