Meet TrustPay Team: Interview with Kristína Pénzesová, Head of Organization and HR

What led you to pursue a career in HR?

For me, it was a somewhat lengthy journey. Before joining TrustPay, I spent 11 years working in economics and finance, continuing the path of my studies. After my maternity leave, I joined TrustPay. Initially, I tried a different role for a few weeks before the opportunity arose to lead the HR. I’ve always been a bit of a “fan” of everything that happens in HR, and I genuinely enjoy working with people. So, when the opportunity arose, I was thrilled to embrace it.

My department combines HR with overall company organization – a combination I truly enjoy.

My slightly cheeky personality sometimes helps me navigate and resolve certain situations more effectively 😊. Over time, I’ve realized that this is the field where I can be my authentic self, leverage my strengths, and embrace the diversity of the role. I’ve been with the company for three years now, and I can honestly say I’m still very satisfied.

“I consider it a crucial HR responsibility to ensure all our departments are staffed with talented individuals. After all, that’s what keeps our company thriving and moving forward.”

In your opinion, what is the most important role of the HR department in a company like TrustPay?

From my perspective, the most important role is open communication with colleagues, listening to their viewpoints on everything happening within the company, and supporting their personal growth.

I can say I’m a positive person (with occasional exceptions 😊), and I try to bring that positivity into everyday interactions with colleagues. I believe every challenge can be resolved, no matter how unpleasant, and I appreciate it when people feel comfortable coming to me.

Lastly, I consider it a crucial HR responsibility to ensure all our departments are staffed with talented individuals. After all, that’s what keeps our company thriving and moving forward.

How do you support colleagues in their professional and personal growth?

Through daily communication, I strive to get to know my colleagues better – their work interests and overall mindset. Often, these conversations reveal that someone might be interested in exploring a different area or even transitioning to another department within our company.

I actively communicate with department heads to understand their teams’ needs and expectations. It’s incredibly rewarding to find a position or department where one can better utilize their skills and talents, benefiting both the individual and the company. We’re very open to such transitions, and seeing our colleagues enjoying their work here is gratifying.

How would you describe TrustPay’s company culture to someone unfamiliar with the company?

At TrustPay, we aim to maintain the culture of a family-run business. We create a work environment that emphasizes building strong personal relationships, loyalty, and employee mutual respect.

I believe our colleagues feel supported and appreciated. Our leadership frequently meets with employees, fostering open communication and trust. The core idea is for everyone to feel valued and genuinely part of our company.

What do you see as the biggest challenge for HR today?

From my perspective, one of the biggest challenges is navigating the complex task of attracting and retaining talent in a highly competitive job market, particularly given evolving employee expectations and workplace dynamics.

I’ve noticed that younger generations often lack interest in traditional work structures, or they prefer not to work in an office environment at all! Of course, I can also imagine how nice it would be if money just appeared without effort. 😊

On a more serious note, I’ve observed that people are losing interest in face-to-face communication and personal connections. Even within our team, we have some true introverts, but I’m happy we also have more outgoing colleagues who enjoy casual chats on any topic. I love that dynamic!

Is there a particular success or project you’re especially proud of within the HR department?

I wouldn’t take sole credit, but I’m incredibly pleased that, after a challenging period, we’ve successfully staffed our Risk and Data department and the Compliance team with exceptional individuals.

Since we’re pretty unique, finding the right talent for these roles is not easy. I can confidently say that the colleagues in these departments are outstanding professionals and great people, which is equally important.

What’s your favorite way to foster team spirit in the company?

As a company, we put a lot of time, energy, and resources into team-building activities, focusing on spending quality time together and strengthening relationships. We host company-wide events and department-specific activities throughout the year to promote teamwork, collaboration, and friendships.

We want to help colleagues bond, get to know each other, and, of course, unwind. Our team loves food, so every corporate event is eagerly anticipated.😊 I genuinely enjoy organizing these events, and seeing colleagues having a great time is so rewarding.

We also value loyalty and celebrate milestones like work anniversaries and significant achievements. It’s wonderful to see someone celebrating 10 or even 12 years with our company and still loving it here. Last year’s Christmas party was particularly special as we celebrated 15 years of TrustPay — it was a memorable moment for all of us.