The Payments Association, which celebrates innovation and collaboration across the payments industry, has today announced the appointment of b.yond digital CEO, Neil Harris, as Chair of its Advisory Board, with Nathalie Oestmann, COO of Outlier Ventures, taking on the role of Vice Chair.
Commenting on the appointments, Tony Craddock, Director General of the Payments Association, said: “A community is only as strong as its leaders - they are the bedrock upon which our organisation stands, and we are confident these appointments will only serve to make The Payments Association a more effective community for all our members. I know that Neil and Nathalie will continue to add strength and depth to the community's leadership team.”
Succeeding Marion King, who held the position for two years, Neil will be responsible for guiding the direction of the association and promoting its vision to ensure a competitive and innovative payments market. This follows a report from Boston Consulting Group published last week, which projected the global fintech sector will grow sixfold by 2030 to $1.5 trillion, illustrating the importance of the sector’s leadership to take the industry
Nathalie Oestmann also brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having held several senior positions at leading financial institutions, including American Express, Curve, Samsung Pay, and most recently at Outlier Ventures. A vocal figure throughout the fintech space, Nathalie has been recognised by ‘Top Women in Fintech’ and achieved a ‘Global 100 Women in Fintech’ award in 2017. Her experience in core operations such as people and legal in financial services makes her an ideal fit for the position.
The appointments recognise both Neil and Natalie’s contribution to the payments industry and their deep insight into the challenges, opportunities, and innovations happening across the market.
Commenting on his appointment, Neil Harris, said: “As leaders in the payments industry, I am honoured to accept the Chair of Advisory Board of the Payment Association, where we continue to shape an inclusive, diverse, competitive and innovative marketplace. I’m hugely proud that our industry provides convenient, inclusive and affordable access for better outcomes for all.”
Harris continues: “With the pace at which the fintech sector is racing, I look forward to us creating further growth and prosperity together, through our board of industry leaders; our community of members and the wider financial services ecosystem. To drive innovation, we must attract the best talent into the sector and the route to achieve this is through education, education, education!”
Nathalie Oestmann added: “Through The Payments Association, our community and Advisory Board, we have a unique opportunity to build upon the considerable progress and collaboration between industry, government and regulators to support this exciting sector, and I am proud of the work of The Payments Association as a bridge to achieve this.”
The Payments Association is at the forefront of driving innovation across the payments landscape. It brings together key stakeholders to facilitate discussion and provide strategic guidance for banks, payment service providers, fintech companies and regulators.
The board’s representation includes senior members from the most influential companies within fintech, spanning the entire financial spectrum. This brings with it the ability to bridge the gap between the fintech and the traditional banking world and change the industry to create a more profitable and sustainable payments ecosystem.
For more information on the work and services of The Payments Association you can visit https://thepaymentsassociation.org/ or contact jay.bennett@thepaymentsassociation.org
