March 14, 2023

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Gabby Stewart, product manager for Central Payments.

Name: Gabby Stewart

Age: 31

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls is a vibrant city! I grew up here, so seeing all the growth the city is experiencing has been a lot of fun. There’s so much Sioux Falls offers: restaurants, nightlife, music, arts, technology, entrepreneurship, community; the list can really go on. There’s plenty of opportunity to have a life dreams are made of, whatever that may look like.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

There’s a lot more to payments than meets the eye. My favorite part is to be able to dive into the details of how things work and how we can elevate financial experiences. I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention how great my co-workers are! All of the people at Central Payments truly care about their work and the vision of our company. They are all quirky, hilarious, intelligent and passionate. I wouldn’t want to be in the trenches with anyone else.

How did you get connected to your industry?

The majority of my career has been in retail banking. I was introduced to banking during my early years in college. A friend had recommended I apply for a teller position at the bank she worked at, and I quickly fell in love with the financial services industry — even so much to declare my degree in business finance at USD. Go Yotes! Since then, I’ve worked in various capacities, such as leading teams in digital customer experiences and later becoming a business analyst.

Stepping into the payments and fintech industry happened when I saw the news of Central Payments’ capital raise on LinkedIn. From there, I really started to look into who Central Payments is, what their vision is and what they stood for. I was inspired by this innovative, small-but-mighty company, nestled right here in Sioux Falls. Becoming a product manager was a goal I had set out for myself, so when I noticed they had a product manager position open, I knew I had to jump on this opportunity. I am so glad I did, and they welcomed me with open arms. It has already been a fun adventure!

Describe Central Payments in three words.

Innovative, passionate, fun.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I have seen Dierks Bentley five times; you could say I enjoy his music!

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

I like to volunteer where and when I can. I donate to the Sioux Empire United Way, and I’ve been fortunate to volunteer with Junior Achievement, The Banquet, the Cure Kids Cancer Radiothon and various other community organizations and events. Outside of those things, I just try to be a good neighbor and a good human.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

Cheesecake Factory — because cheesecake.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

If we’re being honest, does anyone really know where they see themselves in five years? Life is a bunch of turns, ups and downs, and roundabouts. Although I will say I’m hopeful that in five years I am happy, healthy, fulfilled and truly soaking in all that life has to offer. As cheesy as it may sound, it’s about the journey and not the destination, right?