Fintech Leaders How René Lacerte Built Bill.com into a Multi-Billion FinTech Powerhouse that Processes 1% of US GDP Annually
Nov 25, 2025
René Lacerte, founder and CEO of Bill, shares his inspiring journey from a music-loving childhood to building a fintech powerhouse that processes over a trillion dollars annually. He dives into the unique challenges of serving small and mid-sized businesses, highlighting how they are the backbone of communities. René emphasizes the importance of customer feedback and organizational culture for sustained success. He discusses the transformative role of AI in financial tasks and the value of deep founder networks in fostering growth.
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Raised By A Self-Taught Musician
- René Lacerte grew up surrounded by music and his father taught himself piano despite having six fingers, inspiring René's attachment to creativity.
- He uses music as meditation and a reminder that persistent practice yields excellence.
Playing With Stan Getz Changed Him
- René played with Stan Getz at Stanford Jazz Camp and received specific feedback on breathing and phrasing.
- That experience influenced his public speaking and attention to phrasing decades later.
SMBs Are Community Glue
- SMBs are the glue of communities and create identity, authenticity, and local expression.
- Serving SMBs fuels community impact and is a lifelong passion for René Lacerte.
