IPS Project Manager (Visa/MasterCard)

We are seeking a highly experienced and decisive specialist in International Payment Systems, focusing on Visa and MasterCard. This pivotal role demands deep expertise, critical thinking, and the ability to independently navigate complex challenges within a dynamic FinTech environment. You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of our interactions with these key partners, from strategic planning to operational execution and critical incident resolution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Engagement & Partnership Development:

  • Establish, cultivate, and maintain long-term strategic relationships with key representatives at Visa and MasterCard at all organizational levels.
  • Initiate, coordinate, and lead joint projects focused on the evolution of card products and payment solutions.
  • Represent the company's interests at industry meetings, conferences, and working groups organized by the International Payment Systems (IPS).

• Uncompromising Compliance & Risk Management:

  • Ensure full and unwavering adherence to all regulatory requirements, rules, and standards set by Visa/MasterCard, including PCI DSS and other critical industry mandates.
  • Proactively manage the process of successfully completing all required audits and certifications related to IPS.
  • Develop and implement internal policies and procedures to effectively mitigate risks associated with non-compliance with IPS requirements.

• Innovative Product & Technology Implementation:

  • Lead the end-to-end integration cycle for new products and technologies introduced by IPS (e.g., 3-D Secure 2.x, Tokenization, Click to Pay, Visa Direct, Mastercard Send).
  • Collaborate closely and coordinate efforts with internal development, product, and business teams to ensure successful and timely implementation of new functionalities.
  • Evaluate the technical feasibility and business value of new offerings from IPS.

• Proactive Monitoring & Market Analysis:

  • Conduct systematic and in-depth analysis of changes in operational rules, policies, pricing structures, and technological requirements of Visa/MasterCard.
  • Promptly adapt internal procedures and systems in response to identified changes.
  • Timely inform senior management and cross-functional departments about critical updates and their potential impact on business operations.

• Critical Incident Resolution & Reporting:

  • Independently and effectively resolve complex disputed situations (transactions, chargebacks, fraud incidents) and other incidents requiring IPS interaction.
  • Work in close collaboration with security, technical support, and legal departments for swift problem resolution.
  • Prepare detailed and accurate reports for International Payment Systems, as well as internal management reports.

Candidate Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree (preferably in Finance, Economics, or Information Technology).
• Experience: 3–5 years of progressive experience in FinTech, payment systems, or acquiring/issuing operations. Proven, hands-on experience interacting directly with Visa/MasterCard at a senior level is mandatory.
• Expertise: Profound understanding of electronic payment mechanisms and bank cards. Impeccable knowledge of International Payment System regulations and rules is essential.
• Languages: English proficiency at B2 (Upper-Intermediate) level or higher is required. Fluent command of Russian is also mandatory. Knowledge of Kazakh is a plus.
• Key Skills: Highly developed critical thinking skills, exceptional analytical abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and proficiency in handling large volumes of documentation. Excellent business negotiation and written communication skills.
• Personal Qualities: Superior organizational skills, absolute accountability, and proactive initiative. Preparedness for independent decision-making and proposing strategic improvements.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Stable and competitive salary, social and pension contributions
• Standard 5-day work week, 8-hour workday.
• Four weeks of paid annual leave.
• Regular corporate events and team-building activities fostering knowledge exchange.
• Access to our corporate kindergarten for employees' children.