Coffee break with Christopher Brunner

Meditation, compliance, and growth: Christopher’s story at Solaris

Interview: Marina Burtyleva

Interviewee: Christopher Brunner

For this Coffee break edition, we sat down with Christopher Brunner, Director of Compliance and Data Protection to reflect on his journey at Solaris, how the company has evolved, and the small habits that help him stay balanced in a fast-paced environment.

What is your role at Solaris and what was it when you first joined? How has it evolved since then?

Christopher: I joined Solaris almost eight years ago as a Senior Compliance Manager in the Legal & Compliance team. Over the years, my role evolved significantly — I became Deputy Compliance Officer, then Head of Regulatory Compliance, and later took on the formal Compliance Officer role when we separated from the legal team.

We also insourced the Data Protection function, which I took responsibility for, and built up Capital Markets Compliance (though that’s no longer part of our offering). Eventually, I moved into the role of Group Head of Compliance, and today, I serve as Director of Compliance and Data Protection.

It’s been quite a journey — one that’s seen both internal growth and the challenge of adapting to an evolving regulatory landscape.

How has the company changed since you first joined?

Christopher: When I first joined, Solaris was still defining itself. We were onboarding our first partners, and the vision of becoming a tech company with a banking license was still in its early stages. Back then, there was an incredible sense of momentum — one valuation round after another, rapid team growth, and plenty of ambitious ideas.

The biggest shift has been moving from a hyper-growth startup to a more structured company. We’ve had to learn how to prioritize, work with limited resources, and be more strategic about where we invest our time and effort.

The market changes, particularly the economic shifts in recent years, have required us to become more cost-conscious and refine our regulatory frameworks. It hasn’t always been easy, but this transformation was necessary. We’ve learned that scaling isn’t just about doing more — it’s about doing the right things well.

What stands out as a key moment or achievement during your time here?

Christopher: One of the things I’m most proud of is building the Compliance and Data Protection functions from the ground up.

When I started, there was not yet an established Regulatory Compliance structure at Solaris. Over the years, we’ve managed to build and scale Compliance processes that not only met immediate needs but were designed to sustain future growth.

That’s no small feat in a company that expanded as quickly as we did. It’s easy to underestimate just how hard it is to develop these functions while operating in a fast-moving, constantly evolving environment.

But we did it—and we did it without ever facing major regulatory deficiencies in the Compliance function per se. That’s something I take great pride in.

What’s one non-work-related thing that always brightens your day at Solaris?

Christopher: Without a doubt, it’s the people and the way we work together.

Compliance and Data Protection can be complex fields — sometimes, different teams have conflicting priorities. But what stands out at Solaris is the willingness of people to step outside their formal roles, collaborate, and do what’s best for the company as a whole.

I’ve seen team members take on responsibilities beyond their job descriptions, simply because they knew it was what the company needed at that moment. That level of commitment and teamwork is rare, and it’s something that makes every day at Solaris a rewarding experience.

What’s a small daily habit or routine that helps you stay productive and balanced?

Christopher: I meditate for 20 minutes every morning before work — it’s been part of my routine for the past seven years.

For me, meditation isn’t just about relaxation or stress relief. It’s about clarity. It helps me see things as they truly are and make better decisions throughout the day.

In a role where strategic thinking are critical, having that sense of focus is invaluable. It’s not always easy to find the time — especially on busy days—but I make sure to stick with it. The benefits extend far beyond the immediate moment; they shape how I approach challenges, priorities, and leadership.

Final thoughts?

Christopher: The past nine years at Solaris have been a journey of growth, change, and continuous learning.

We’ve evolved from a fast-moving startup to a more structured and strategic company, and I’ve had the privilege of helping shape Compliance and Data Protection along the way.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue refining our frameworks, driving efficiency, and working with an incredible team to build a stronger Solaris for the future.