From the moment we started looking for a new CEO for Hive5, it was clear we needed someone with a strong understanding of international business and experience in the lending industry. Just as importantly, this person needed to know how to turn plans into action, see things through to the end, and inspire the team to do the same. We believe we’ve found exactly the right person. Please welcome Hive5’s new CEO, Artis Pukitis.
Professional Experience
Krisjanis Znotins, CEO of the group, introduces Artis to the community and says:
“I’ve had the opportunity to work with Artis before, first at Eleving Group and later more closely at Wandoo Finance Group, so I know his strengths and the way he works. He adapts remarkably quickly to different situations and, most importantly, has a rare ability to look beyond the numbers and understand what they really mean in the business. It’s great to have him on board”.
If we had to highlight the most significant part of Artis’ professional experience, it would definitely be his extensive background in the lending industry. One of the most significant achievements of his career came during his time at Eleving Group, when he took over the management of a business that was being prepared for sale. Under his leadership, the portfolio grew, the business began recording profitable months, and the sale was completed.
Another important chapter in Artis’ career was his time at Wandoo Finance Group in Romania. He joined the business at an early stage, built the local team, launched loan issuance and, according to Artis, reached break-even within approximately eight to nine months. This experience is particularly relevant to Hive Finance as the Group continues to develop its lending operations in Romania.
Artis later moved to Dubai, where he managed Yusr Rent, an automotive financing business. This brought a different set of challenges: stronger competition, a different business culture and the experience of managing an international team.
Why Hive5?
After holding several senior management positions across different markets, Artis has brought this experience into the investment sector. When asked what attracted him to Hive5, Artis explains: “My first real exposure to the investment platform business came when I was helping a loan originator to join Mintos and planning its funding needs. That experience made me realise how much potential there is in the P2P industry and how interesting this business can be.” Artis has also been a P2P investor for many years, giving him a valuable perspective on the industry from the investor’s side as well.
When asked about his priorities at Hive5, Artis says:
“One of my goals is to dedicate a small part of my time to supporting Hive Finance as well, particularly in making lending processes more efficient. I believe my previous experience could bring some valuable insights there. As for the future of Hive5, the team and I have already identified the areas where the platform needs to improve and where action is needed first. But I’m not someone who likes to make promises before the work is done. I’m joining Hive5 with a simple intention: to let the results speak louder than words.”
The Person and the Leader
Artis describes himself as calm under pressure, approachable and rational. He is the kind of leader who stays close to his team, values open communication and prefers to make decisions together.
Artis’ strong sense of discipline extends beyond his professional life. He holds a second-dan black belt in karate and previously judged international competitions, although he has not been actively involved in the sport for around five years. Outside of work, he enjoys travelling.
