Head of Payment Systems Strategy

Description

The role involves shaping strategy, driving process efficiency, and ensuring compliance in the issuing and acquiring domains. This leader will also manage department resources, mitigate risks, and serve as a key contributor to broader business transformation and financial performance.

Responsibilities:

• Define and drive operational strategies and governance for card transaction services, ensuring alignment with the broader organizational roadmap.
• Review, enhance, and enforce internal procedures to meet evolving industry, legal, and security standards; emphasizing regulatory and brand compliance.
• Oversee daily operations for both card issuance and merchant acquiring functions, ensuring seamless execution and minimal service disruption.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with finance, risk, customer service, and IT teams to identify growth opportunities and improve operational resilience.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team by establishing clear objectives
• Prepare departmental budgets and forecasts while monitoring ongoing financial and service performance.
• Deliver executive reports, risk assessments, industry submissions, and internal commentary for strategic insight and operational transparency.
• Maintain ongoing awareness of global payment trends and ensure infrastructure readiness for future innovation.

Requirements:

• A degree in Business Administration or a related field; formal certification in PCI compliance or payment risk management preferred.
• Over 12 years of specialized experience in the payment card ecosystem, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Expert understanding of card networks, payment processing, risk control, and transaction dispute resolution.
• Strong background in operational governance, reporting, and service delivery within regulated environments.
• Exceptional leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of guiding multidisciplinary teams toward common goals.