Professional Journey

Payment Systems & Global Operations

Yana's professional journey in the US is characterized by a series of strategic and impactful roles. Her venture began in business development and accounting and tax advisory at the reputable accounting firm, H&R Block. Her career took an exciting turn when she joined TransCash as the Chief of Operations in 2014. This role was a transformative leap, bringing new challenges and opportunities. In this capacity, Yana navigated through a spectrum of responsibilities, focusing on the company's development in France and Italy. TransCash expanded globally and became one of the leaders in Prepaid in Europe.

Energy Sector: Utility-Scale Solar PV Development & Finance

Yana's most impactful work has unfolded in the renewable energy sector, a utility-scale solar PV plant development with the main focus on countries of the African Continent and South America. Yana led the development of a 1 GW solar PV project of national importance alongside the CCO, Charles Cohen, in one of Africa's largest countries. This role involved carefully navigating the political and cultural landscape, building robust relationships, forging partnerships with governments, overcoming legal and financial hurdles, and securing the necessary contracts including power purchase agreements, sovereign guarantees, various agreements, licenses, and approvals.

Philanthropy

Women Empowerment, Smart Cities, JfW

Yana's Early Life

Yana's career is a remarkable blend of artistic talent and global business ingenuity, starting from her early years in Siberia, Russia. At 6 years old, she was a professional artist and ballerina, performing at the State Music Theater and national dance competitions. Her artistic talents extended beyond dance; she was proficient in playing the guitar and piano, performing on stage in a singing duo alongside her friend and talented artist, Marina Matveeva. This early immersion in the arts laid the foundation of discipline, creativity, and versatility, which later became instrumental in her dynamic professional trajectory.

Education and Journalism

Yana studies Public Relations at Omsk State University while simultaneously lighting up the screen as a news anchor for the State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company "Irtysh" covering local and national news. Yana also received an MBA from the University of Southern California and a BA in Finance from Pepperdine University.