In this feature, we delve into Kevin Bentil, also known as Babona, around Cellulant corridors, uncovering his strategy for being a good salesperson, his challenges, and how he overcomes them. Kevin describes himself as a good problem solver who enjoys thinking outside the box and finding creative solutions. When he isn’t busy selling Cellulant solutions to prospective customers, he spends his time on Youtube watching the WRC rally race or just videos on automobile mechanics.
Kevin shares some interesting facts about himself and his Cellulant journey,
Before you tell us your Cellulant story, tell us about yourself. Who Is Kevin Bentil?
I am a highly motivated and organized individual passionate about learning and growth. I graduated from Ghana Technology University College with a degree in Telecommunication Engineering and have since gained experience in telecoms and fintech. I have a few certifications in Software Product Development Management. I adapt quickly and enjoy working in a team environment. In my free time, I enjoy watching automobile content (high-speed car videos) and anything related to mechanics.
Where would you go and why if you could go anywhere?
Mmmh!If I could go anywhere, I would love to travel to the past, use my knowledge from the present to make an impact, and get my name in the “People who changed the World Book.”
Living in the years [July 28th, 1914 – September 2, 1945] would be a good idea.
What could that be if you could only eat one type of food for the rest of your life?
Anything “rice,” preferably Ghana Jollof, because of the “one-pot” technique used when preparing it, I know my Western brothers and sisters will differ and say Nigerian Jollof rice is the best, I have tasted it, but Ghana Jollof takes the cup. Africa has some decadent recipes and tastes in food but I’d take Ghana Jollof any day!
Favorite African Artist?
Sakordie – He is a “multifaceted rapper”; he possesses various musical styles. Sarkodie is often named one of Africa’s greatest hip-hop artists 🙂.
What drives you?
Two things drive me.
One is constantly challenging and improving myself. The second one would be my curiosity about the world.
I’m always eager to learn new things and strive to improve. I love to set for myself what I call “personal goals” and then work hard to achieve them. Whether mastering a new skill, completing a difficult task, or reaching a personal milestone. Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Now let us in on your Cellulant Journey.
How did you know about Cellulant?
I first heard about the company through its partnership with my last place of employment and a former colleague who spoke highly of its culture and innovation reputation. After looking into the company further, I was impressed by the innovative the company was developing and the impact it was having in the industry. I was excited to learn more about how I could contribute to such a forward-thinking organization.
What attracted you to Cellulant?
I was drawn to the company for a few reasons. First and foremost, I was impressed by the company’s vision statement. As someone passionate about financial technology, I appreciate the company’s vision to enable seamless payments for businesses, banks, and consumers across Africa. The company’s reputation for being a leading Pan African payments company providing payment methods for global, regional, and local merchants was another reason I wanted to be part of the company.
When I researched the company further, I was excited to see its impact on the industry. The company aligned with my career goals and values, and I was eager to contribute to its continued success.
Finally, I was attracted to the company’s culture and work environment. From what I gathered through my research and conversations with current employees, the company values collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to excellence. These are all qualities I love in a workplace, and the company would provide a supportive and challenging environment to grow my career.
How long have you been in your role? What would you say has been the most exciting part of the job?
I have been in my role for a year now, and the exciting part is embracing and knowing the dynamics and the nature of sales and the fact that each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth.
I have enjoyed working with a team of talented professionals who are passionate about what they do. The collaborative nature of the work environment has allowed me to learn from my colleagues and to develop my skills in data-driven decisions & negotiations.
The most rewarding moment at work for me was when I was able to help a colleague who was struggling with a task. I had some experience in the area and provided guidance and support that helped them get back on track. It was a great feeling to be able to help someone and make a positive impact on their work.
.Speaking of colleagues, I got my moniker name,” Babona,” from my colleagues. This was after I sealed my first sales deal with one of our OMC merchants.
What’s the one problem you are solving for clients in your market?
Payment fragmentation.
In Ghana, different mobile money providers and banks need integrations to support interoperability at the merchant level, forcing merchants to use multiple platforms and interfaces to manage their digital collections.
Through our Instore product, I can provide a business tool/ solution that is both effective and efficient for collection into a single store of value.
By solving this fundamental problem for my clients, I can impact their businesses and the industry.
What has been the most significant challenge/learning opportunity about the job?
As a sales representative, the most significant challenge is dealing with rejection and maintaining motivation. Every sales call or meeting may not lead to a successful sale, which can be discouraging. However, learning to handle rejection constructively and use it to improve sales techniques has been a valuable learning opportunity.
Who has been the most significant influence in your career & why?
My Country Manager, Eric Kortey, and Myself. Eric has a wealth of knowledge and experience and has been a great mentor.
My own experiences and challenges have been a significant influence on my career. They have taught me resilience and the importance of taking risks and learning from failure.
What do you love most about working at Cellulant?
What I love most about working at Cellulant is the opportunity for growth and advancement. There are always new tasks and challenges to take on. Cellulant invests in its employees’ development to help them achieve their career goals. It’s great to be part of an organization that supports and encourages its employees’ growth and success.
What Cellulant value does the team resonate with more and why?
Customer delight, whatever it takes, because through this value, I always make sure I give our customers nothing but the best experience of our customers also because it comes with my daily job.
How do you want to be remembered?
As someone kind, compassionate, and always willing to help others.
In your own words, what does Cellulant want to do in Africa, and why is that inspirational for you?
Cellulant is here to be a global industry player in the payment space. An African organization realizing the vast gap in Africa’s financial technology and trying to bridge this gap is quite inspirational.
Parting Quote!
Permit yourself to change your mind when something no longer works for you.
