UK-based buy now, pay later (BNPL) fintech Zilch has announced the appointment of Boriana Tchobanova as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective September 26, 2025, as the company continues to pursue growth strategies including international acquisitions and a potential initial public offering.
Tchobanova succeeds Rakesh Harji, who departed Zilch in July after nearly seven years in the COO role. Tchobanova brings extensive experience, having previously served as COO during her 15-year tenure at American Express. More recently, she held the position of Senior Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer at American Express Global Business Travel since 2020.
According to a company statement, Tchobanova’s responsibilities will include “delivering major initiatives that will support the organisation’s growth, unlock new revenue opportunities, and improve efficiencies.”
The appointment comes as Zilch is reportedly seeking international acquisition opportunities, as reported by Sky News in July, in preparation for a potential initial public offering (IPO). To support these strategic ambitions, Zilch has engaged MHP Group to provide expertise in strategic communications, public affairs, creative campaigning, and capital markets advisory. MHP Group’s previous clients include Coinbase, which went public in 2021, and Airwallex, which is targeting a stock market floatation next year.
Zilch has also strengthened its financial position with recent funding rounds. In June of the previous year, the fintech secured £100 million in securitised debt financing, led by Deutsche Bank. This week, the company further boosted its lending capacity with a new £30 million loan facility from US Bank.
Founded in 2018 by CEO Philip Belamant, Serge Belamant, and Sean O’Connor, Zilch is a UK-based BNPL provider. The company was last valued at approximately $2 billion following a $110 million Series C funding round in 2021.
