MasterCard has appointed Raghu Malhotra as president for its Middle East and Africa operations and Michael Miebach as its chief product officer, based at its headquarters in New York.

 

It is part of a sereis of leadership changes for the Middle East and Africa, which will take effect on January 1 next year.

 

Malhotra, who has been overseeing activities for the 39 markets across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, will now be responsible for driving the evolution of the company’s technologies and delivering increased value to MasterCard stakeholders across the entire region, including sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa, said a statement.

 

He has been at MasterCard for more 10 years, holding senior leadership roles in Asia and the Middle East, it said.

 

As chief product officer, Miebach will bring an extended global experience from mature and emerging markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, helping to evolve products and technologies based on individual markets’ needs. 

 

Ann Cairns, president, International Markets at MasterCard, said: “MasterCard is focused on building a strong, relevant and impactful business across the Middle East and Africa. I am pleased that today’s appointment demonstrates our continued commitment to empowering strong leaders who can drive innovation and inclusion in a meaningful and connected way. 

 

"Through this new appointment, we will continue to build a business that delivers to the needs of both the partner and the cardholder. During his tenure, Michael has helped shape and build MasterCard’s business and reputation for excellence in this exciting region and I am grateful to him and delighted that the business is transitioning to a new and dynamic leader in Raghu.”

 

A replacement for Malhotra’s position will be announced separately, the statement added. - TradeArabia News Service