At Cheetah, our mission is not just about delivering cutting-edge technology but also about ensuring clients have a trusted guide to navigate their journey toward greater efficiency and growth.
Enter Shane Pond, a Solutions Consultant whose extensive background in financial services and trust operations uniquely positions him to serve prospective clients during their decision-making process.
With 15 years of industry experience, Shane’s career spans retail banking, wealth management, mutual fund processing, and trust operations. Before joining Cheetah, Shane led a trust company’s transition to modern technology—a process that introduced him to Cheetah and eventually inspired him to join the team.
Today, he helps clients pinpoint challenges, identify opportunities, and implement solutions tailored to their specific needs.
What inspired your transition to Cheetah after years in the financial services industry?
Culture and growth. When I was leading a trust company’s technology transition, I saw firsthand how innovative Cheetah was. I recognized its potential for growth and knew I wanted to be part of that journey. What really drew me in, though, was the culture. The team I worked with during the implementation was incredibly collaborative and client-focused. That sense of community and shared purpose matched what I valued in my career.
Can you describe your role as a Solutions Consultant at Cheetah?
My role is about connecting the dots between what clients need and the solutions we offer.
I work alongside our sales team to meet with prospective clients who are exploring their options. My job is to assess their current processes, uncover pain points, and help them visualize where they want to go.
It’s not just about selling software—it’s about providing a roadmap for their success, whether that means using Cheetah’s tools, our partners’ solutions, or even a competitor’s offering. I bring an honest approach to every conversation, so clients feel empowered to make the right decision for their business.
How has your background helped you in this role?
Having worked in many roles—from a financial advisor to head of trust operations—I understand the challenges our clients face. I’ve been in their shoes, juggling manual processes, inefficient systems, and increasing demands.
This perspective helps me build trust and credibility with clients. I can anticipate their pain points, speak their language, and relate to their day-to-day realities. For example, I’ve experienced the hesitation that comes with switching software systems, so I can reassure clients by drawing on my own transitions. That shared understanding makes the conversation more meaningful and helps us work toward real solutions.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Without a doubt, it’s those “aha moments.” When I present a solution and a client suddenly realizes how much easier their work could be, it’s incredibly rewarding.
For example, many clients struggle with time-consuming onboarding processes or manual exception reporting. Showing them how Cheetah automates these tasks often sparks visible relief and excitement. When clients see the potential for transformation, that’s a highlight for me. It proves that what we do has a genuine impact.
How do you see Cheetah driving long-term value for clients?
Cheetah’s technology isn’t just about streamlining operations; it’s about enabling our clients to be more strategic and proactive.
For instance, we help firms identify inefficiencies that might be holding them back, such as manual reporting or bottlenecks in task management. By addressing those issues, our clients can focus on higher-value activities, like deepening client relationships or growing their business. Over time, this shift enhances not only their bottom line but also their ability to deliver exceptional service.
The ultimate goal is to empower our clients to achieve success on their terms, using technology as a catalyst.
