The ideal approach often involves a strategic blend of both in-house teams and outsourcing, since after covid era, we’ve witnessed numerous organizations thrive by combining the strengths of both models. Outsourcing offers specialized expertise and cross-industry insights, which can be invaluable. However, it’s equally important to build strong relationships and a cohesive corporate culture within in-house teams.
fintechview presents in its latest digital magazine, Marianna Hadjiandoniou, a seasoned human resources executive with over 20 years of experience in HR management and consulting across various industries. She currently serves as the Executive Vice President at Energame, a management firm in the iGaming sector, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and driving organizational excellence .
In addition to her role at Energame, Marianna is the Founder and Director of PERHA Group, a boutique HR consulting firm based in Limassol, Cyprus. PERHA Group offers a range of services, including HR strategy, analytics, leadership development, and organizational development . Marianna shares her views on the human resources sector, the demanding fintech industry and why a business must first prioritize expertise and proven experience within their industry.
We’d love to hear how your journey into entrepreneurship or your career path got started.
Back in 2014 I came across the idea of creating a unique HR consulting firm that offered a more personalized and tailored approach to every aspect of human resources. I wanted to build a company that went beyond traditional HR services, focusing on customizing solutions to meet the specific needs of each client. This vision led me to establish a firm that prioritizes close relationships, individual attention, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities organizations face. From that moment, I was determined to redefine the way HR consulting was perceived and create impactful and sustainable solutions for businesses.
What should businesses look for in a tech partner to guarantee quality and efficiency?
When selecting the right tech partner, a business must first prioritize expertise and proven experience within their industry. A tech partner who truly understands the unique challenges and needs of your business can deliver solutions that are both efficient and impactful. Equally important is alignment in corporate culture and values. With so many Gen Z professionals now shaping the tech industry, it’s essential to partner with a company that not only understands the generational dynamics but also shares a similar approach to innovation, collaboration, and workplace culture.
In-house teams or outsourcing? Your thoughts on this.
The ideal approach often involves a strategic blend of both in-house teams and outsourcing, since after covid era, we’ve witnessed numerous organizations thrive by combining the strengths of both models. Outsourcing offers specialized expertise and cross-industry insights, which can be invaluable. However, it’s equally important to build strong relationships and a cohesive corporate culture within in-house teams, especially for crucial positions based on the structure of the company.So, I encourage businesses to embrace a flexible approach and be open to accommodate both in-house and outsourced talent to maximize efficiency.
You’re highly engaged in CSR initiatives. How has this influenced your personal growth, and in what ways can CSR benefit an organization?
Giving back to society and people in need was something that my mother taught me in a very young age. I remember sharing some of my birthday presents in case I already had similar ones with kids that were not so fortunate. So growing up I decided that this was something that I wanted to do and grow over the years and I had the opportunity in the companies that I work to offer a lot back to people in need. Now in regards to organisations I believe that they should have CSR into their corporate culture. CSR not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also enhances a company’s reputation, especially as European Union directives on sustainability and ethical practices continue to evolve. Companies that actively engage in CSR initiatives are seen as more socially responsible, which can build stronger relationships with employees, customers, and stakeholders. Moreover, CSR contributes to long-term success by driving employee engagement. It’s a win-win situation that benefits both the organization and society as a whole.
Companies that actively engage in CSR initiatives are seen as more socially responsible, which can build stronger relationships with employees, customers, and stakeholders.
What’s coming up next for Perha Group?
At PERHA in Cyprus, our primary focus is helping clients optimize their HR positioning and create environments where both individuals and organizations can thrive. We work closely with companies to enhance their corporate culture, streamline policies, and refine internal procedures to foster a workplace where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered. By aligning these key elements with the company’s overall vision and goals, we ensure that organizations not only boost productivity but also improve employee satisfaction and retention.
At PERHA Group we offer a comprehensive, one-stop solution for companies with headquarters in Cyprus, providing end-to-end business support. So I would say our unique selling point lies in providing complete, end-to-end business support with dedication and reliability. We cover a wide range of areas, including Workplace Compliance and HR services, like employment law, equal pay, health and safety, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). We manage the entire Employee Lifecycle Support, from recruitment and relocation (with concierge services) to onboarding and wellbeing initiatives. We also support Business Infrastructure needs such as payroll, banking, insurance, and claims handling, along with Branding and Engagement strategies, including corporate branding, communication, workplace culture, and lifestyle support.
One of our key strategies is to implement tailored CSR initiatives on behalf of our clients, which not only benefit society but also reinforce a positive, purpose-driven culture within the company. We believe that a strong CSR framework can enhance an organization’s reputation, strengthen employee engagement, and contribute to long-term success.
In 2023, we expanded into Dubai, marking a significant milestone in our growth. This expansion reflects our ambition to support HR projects across the Middle East, where the demand for innovative HR solutions and a strong corporate culture is rapidly growing. Our goal is to become a trusted partner in the region, helping businesses create sustainable and effective HR practices that attract top talent and foster a high-performance culture across diverse markets.
As a highly active woman, how do you navigate the challenges of balancing your professional life with motherhood?
Today’s women, like men, face unique challenges in balancing their personal and professional lives, especially when navigating demanding careers. While our needs may differ, it’s essential not to solely focus on women when designing HR policies or procedures aimed at improving work-life balance. The reality of balancing business and motherhood is often more complex than the idealized versions we hear about in books or podcasts. Striving for an “ideal” balance can sometimes be a myth. The key is to prioritize what matters most at the specific time and don’t be afraid to admit that sometimes we need to work a little harder and we need to take this extra vacation day just to cover things up. It’s about being adaptable and focusing on the bigger picture.
How important is to have a strong network?
It’s not about how many people you know—it’s about the relationships you build. A small, active, supportive network is more powerful than a large, disengaged one.
Having a strong network is extremely important—both professionally and personally. Here’s why:
Knowledge Sharing: Being connected to others in your industry helps you stay updated on trends, tools, and strategies.
Mentorship & Guidance: A strong network gives you access to people who’ve “been there, done that” and can offer valuable advice.
Opportunities: Many jobs and business deals come through referrals and word-of-mouth. A good network often opens doors that a résumé alone can’t.
Collaboration: People in your network can become partners, co-founders, or creative collaborators.
Visibility & Credibility When others know your work and speak positively about you, your reputation builds organically. Sharing your own insights can position you as a thought leader in your field.
Read the full interview at fintechview digital magazine edition 4