FINCA Armenia
Irena Balayan has a diverse and extensive work experience. Irena worked as the Head of Marketing Department at FINCA Armenia since February 2023. Prior to that, they had various roles at World Vision, including Marketing and Corporate Engagement Coordinator from October 2020 to March 2023, Marketing Officer from September 2017 to March 2023, and Economic Development Coordinator from April 2014 to March 2023. Before joining World Vision, they worked as a Financial Analyst at SCDM from February 2013 to April 2014. Irena'searliest work experience was as a Monitoring and Credit Risk Specialist at "ARMSWISSBANK" CJSC from April 2011 to October 2012.
Irena Balayan pursued their education from 2008 to 2010 at the Armenian State University of Economics, where they obtained a Master's degree in International Economics.
FINCA Armenia
FINCA Armenia is part of the US-based FINCA Impact Finance network, a group of 19 microfinance institutions and banks operating worldwide. Being a global trendsetter in the microfinance industry, FINCA Impact Finance provides socially responsible financial services and enables low-income individuals and communities to invest in their futures. Established in 1999, FINCA Armenia is one of the largest credit organizations in Armenia with the widest network of 30 branches operating in every region of the country, and a staff of over 300 people. In the years since its establishment, FINCA Armenia has operated in a rather competitive market, with a clear message of advocating for a new standard of service - a customer-centric approach that puts quality in the heart of its operations. Leveraging the newest and most advanced technological solutions, we strive to deliver faster, smarter and more convenient services to our customers. Continuous commitment to providing unmatched customer experience and value helped the institution to gain and maintain its leading position in the Armenian market. Public opinion polls conducted by Gallup International recognized FINCA Armenia as “The Best Credit Organization in Armenia” each year from 2013 to 2016. In 2018, in accordance with FIF’s digital transformation strategy, FINCA Armenia began taking active steps towards digitizing its offering of financial products and services. The institution launched its Online Loan Application (OLA) system, which allows clients to apply for loans of up to AMD 1,000,000 using a smartphone, computer or tablet, all without visiting a branch. In 2019, FINCA Armenia launched its tablet-based lending, through which clients can apply for larger loans from anywhere and receive the decision within minutes. In December 2018, FINCA Armenia became the first institution in Armenia to be awarded with the Smart Certificate for its continued adherence to the Smart Campaign’s client protection standards.