Payment Program Manager – Card Issuing

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Germany.

📋 Description

• Lead the launch of new card programs, products, markets, and currencies from the initial scoping and requirements phase to production release.

• Oversee the onboarding of Visa and Mastercard schemes and partners, including BIN and product setup as well as scheme submissions.

• Organize and manage end-to-end testing with partners, ensuring program approval prior to launch.

• Coordinate the launch of both physical and virtual cards, which includes design approvals and collaboration with external vendors for production.

• Propel the launches of digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, from issuer onboarding and certification to go-live.

• Expand wallet programs to encompass new products, BINs, and markets.

• Monitor the performance of wallets and tokenization, addressing any issues in collaboration with partners.

• Ensure adherence to scheme rules, mandates, and releases, translating necessary changes into actionable steps.

• Contribute to ongoing reporting for schemes and partners.

• Collaborate with Compliance and Fraud teams on controls, escalations, and audits.

• Act as the primary internal and external contact for assigned programs.

• Transform business and partner requirements into clear specifications for Product and Engineering teams.

• Manage multiple concurrent projects, dependencies, and risks, while providing regular updates to stakeholders.

• Enhance and document program launch and operational processes.

• Leverage AI and automation tools to minimize manual tasks.

⛳️ Requirements

• 4–7 years of experience in the payments industry, including a minimum of 3 years of direct involvement in card program implementation at an issuer, processor, program manager, or card-issuing fintech.

• Practical experience in launching and managing programs with both Visa and Mastercard.

• Experience in launching digital wallets and tokenization, preferably including an Apple Pay issuer launch.

• Strong understanding of the card lifecycle, covering authorization, clearing and settlement, 3DS, tokenization, and physical card production.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects with various stakeholders simultaneously, ensuring clear ownership and reporting.

• Technical proficiency with API documentation, transaction data, test results, and daily collaboration with engineering teams.

• Structured and proactive work approach; capability to identify risks early and maintain documentation throughout.

• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

• Nice to have: established connections within card schemes and the broader issuing ecosystem.

• Nice to have: experience with commercial card products and multi-currency programs.

• Nice to have: exposure to European and Global card programs.

• Nice to have: proficient in SQL or data analysis skills.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary package.

• Flat organizational structure and open communication within a relaxed yet professional environment.

• Opportunity to cultivate your skills in a dynamic team with ambitious objectives.

• Flexibility and the option to work remotely.

• Monthly mobility allowance.

• Wellhub Membership.

• Pliant Card with a monthly credit to explore products and enjoy meals with colleagues.