Head of Payments Strategy & Operations
A growing and innovative regulated financial services organisation is seeking an experienced Head of Payments Strategy & Operations to lead the development, performance, and evolution of its payments function.
This is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing payment operations, scheme relationships, payment technology, and strategic change initiatives. You'll work closely with Product, Technology, Risk, and Operations teams to deliver reliable, scalable, and customer-focused payment services while driving innovation and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver the payments strategy in line with business objectives.
- Lead day-to-day payment operations across card payments, UK payment schemes, and international payment services.
- Manage relationships with payment schemes, banking partners, and payment service providers.
- Drive operational improvements through automation, technology, and process optimisation.
- Partner with Product and Technology teams to deliver new payment capabilities and enhancements.
- Ensure robust governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance across payment activities.
- Monitor service performance, customer outcomes, and operational resilience.
- Lead and develop a high-performing payments team.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Experience leading payments operations, schemes, or payment transformation within a regulated financial services environment.
- Strong understanding of card payments and UK payment schemes.
- Experience working closely with Technology and Product teams to deliver payment solutions and improvements.
- Proven ability to lead teams, manage stakeholders, and drive operational change.
- Good understanding of payments governance, risk, and regulatory requirements.
- A hands‑on leadership style with the ability to operate strategically and operationally.
Desirable
- Experience within a fintech, payment institution, EMI, or banking environment.
- Knowledge of international payment services and cross-border payments.
- Experience delivering automation, AI, or digital transformation initiatives.
- Understanding of safeguarding, financial crime controls, and operational resilience requirements.
