BLOCKCHAIN WEEK 2023

Getting to know Ben Rose of Binance

We caught up with Ben Rose, general manager of Binance Australia and New Zealand, to talk about his recent career move, journey into the crypto space and mass adoption of blockchain tech.

First up, what was your background before moving over to Binance?

Before joining Binance, I had extensive experience in sales and marketing across various industries, such as tech, media, travel, banking, insurance, and energy. I worked with well-known organisations such as Nissan, Unilever, and Tourism New Zealand, while owning and growing significant P&Ls in B2B and B2C industries at companies like ASB, NIB, and Stuff. My expertise included developing successful insight-led commercial plans and executing them, resulting in revenue growth, reduced customer churn rates, and increased average revenue per user (ARPU). Apart from my professional career, I serve on the board of Ronald McDonald House Charities New Zealand and help support their incredible work for Kiwi families.

What was it that drew you to Binance?

What drew me to Binance originally was the company’s mission to increase the adoption of cryptocurrency, aiming to bring greater financial freedom to users worldwide. I was excited by the opportunity to work for a global fintech leader that is not only at the forefront of blockchain technology and the fast-growing crypto industry, but also thrives in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. Binance’s innovative spirit and dedication to empowering its users aligned well with my passion for driving growth and creating value in transformative sectors. Working for Binance has provided me with the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of finance.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in your career so far?

The power of flexibility and adaptability. Working across various industries has taught me the importance of being able to adjust and pivot to rapidly changing market conditions, consumer needs, and regulatory requirements. This lesson has been particularly valuable in my role at Binance, where the crypto landscape is continuously evolving. Moreover, my focus on compliance has allowed me to navigate through complex regulatory environments, better understand and address risks, and ensure our business practices meet the highest standards while continuously striving for growth and innovation.

How did your journey in Web3 and crypto begin?

I first started using the Binance platform as a regular user, exploring the world of cryptocurrency through peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions. This allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the potential that cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology have in transforming our financial systems and empowering people with more control over their finances. My experience as a user eventually led me to join Binance, where I could further contribute to the mass adoption of crypto while leveraging my professional expertise in sales, marketing, and business strategy to expand the company’s reach in Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Islands region.

What excites you most about being in this space?

The opportunity to contribute to the global adoption of cryptocurrencies and witness the positive impact it has on people’s lives. Embracing the core principle of the freedom of money, I’m thrilled to be part of an industry that is breaking down barriers in traditional finance by providing easier access to digital assets, promoting financial inclusion, and granting individuals more control over their own funds.

I’m also enthusiastic about the ongoing innovations in blockchain technology and the development of new use cases, including DeFi, NFTs, and Web3. It is fantastic to watch crypto become a more mainstream financial tool and be at the forefront of the effort to ensure more people across the globe experience the freedom and benefits offered by cryptocurrencies.

What do you think is going to be key to mass adoption of blockchain tech and trust in crypto?

The key to mass adoption of blockchain technology and trust in crypto lies in showcasing real-world use cases, promoting education and awareness, ensuring compliance and regulatory cooperation, and supporting the development of scalable solutions. By addressing these aspects, we can build trust in cryptocurrencies and encourage their widespread adoption, ultimately demonstrating the true potential of blockchain technology.

What piece of advice would you give to newbies entering the crypto space?

Always conduct thorough research and start by investing small amounts. Take the time to learn about different cryptocurrencies, their underlying technology, and use cases before making any investments. Gradually scale up as you build knowledge, confidence, and experience while mitigating risks. Remember that entering the crypto space is a continuous learning journey, so always stay up-to-date and make informed decisions.

You can see Ben on Day 1 of Blockchain Week 2023, in the fireside chat, ‘Across the Pacific: A Dialogue on the Evolution and Future Trajectory of Binance’ and on the afternoon panel, ‘The Institutionalisation of Crypto: How Digital Currency Exchanges are Adapting to New Market Demands’.

A very big thanks to Binance for coming on board as a major sponsor for Blockchain Week 2023.