Director - North America Product - job 2 of 21

As the Director - North America Product, your responsibilities will include analyzing data quality trends within the US Business and Commercial issuer portfolios, developing a comprehensive data quality program, and maintaining a robust understanding of the commercial payment landscape. You'll work closely with external partners at issuing banks and processors to implement plans for issuer reporting, and your leadership will guide teams through issuer data quality reviews. Your role is crucial for ensuring high standards in data quality and communication to all stakeholders involved.

To be considered for the Director - North America Product position, candidates typically need a strong background in data analysis, project management, and commercial payment systems. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills are vital, as you'll be collaborating with various stakeholders. Previous experience in a leadership role, particularly within a matrix organization, is highly desirable. A deep understanding of the US commercial payment landscape and issuer engagements, along with the ability to operate independently and make informed decisions, are essential attributes for this position.

In the role of Director - North America Product, you will establish and nurture relationships with external clients, including issuing banks and processors. Your responsibility involves providing subject matter expertise to these partners, ensuring they are well-informed about data quality issues and reporting changes in the US region. By guiding them through these processes, your goal is to enhance their understanding and commitment, ultimately leading to improved data quality and stronger partnerships.

Success as the Director - North America Product hinges on several key skills including strong leadership, analytical prowess, and exceptional communication abilities. You'll need to navigate cross-functional projects and collaborate effectively with diverse teams. Your capability to provide detailed program status updates and statistical analysis will be critical, along with the ability to operate under minimal supervision and make independent decisions. Adaptability in a fast-paced environment will also contribute to your effectiveness in this role.

The work environment for the Director - North America Product is hybrid, combining both remote and in-office work. This role emphasizes a fast-paced and customer-focused atmosphere, ideal for individuals who thrive in dynamic settings. You will engage frequently with various internal and external stakeholders, making effective communication and collaboration crucial. The organization fosters an environment of innovation and change, requiring leadership that can adapt and respond to new challenges as they arise.

When analyzing data quality trends, I first gather relevant data from multiple sources to understand the current landscape. I identify patterns and anomalies, utilizing statistical analysis tools to quantify data quality issues. Once I have a clear picture, I collaborate with teams to develop actionable insights that can inform our data quality program strategies, ensuring that our solutions effectively address the root causes of any discrepancies.

In a previous role, I led a cross-functional team tasked with improving the data quality of our issuer reporting. I organized kick-off meetings to align goals and facilitated ongoing communication among the team members. By fostering a collaborative environment where everyone felt valued, we were able to identify weaknesses in our processes, implement strategic changes, and enhance our data quality significantly, resulting in more reliable reporting to our stakeholders.

Building strong relationships with external partners involves regular communication, transparency, and demonstrating that we value their input. I prioritize setting clear expectations, showing appreciation for their collaboration, and providing updates on progress. Serving as a reliable resource and actively seeking their feedback not only fosters trust but also enhances our capacity to address data quality issues together effectively.

I stay informed about trends in the commercial payment landscape through a combination of industry reports, webinars, and networking with professionals in the field. I follow relevant thought leaders on platforms like LinkedIn and participate in industry conferences where I can gain insights into evolving practices and emerging technologies. This continuous learning enables me to adapt strategies and keep the organization ahead of the curve.

Data analysis is central to my decision-making process as it provides an evidence-based approach to problem-solving. I rely on data insights to evaluate trends and measure the effectiveness of our initiatives. By leveraging data analytics tools, I can assess our performance and make informed decisions that align with the organization's objectives, ultimately driving better outcomes for our clients and stakeholders.

In situations where data quality issues arise unexpectedly, my first step would be to conduct a thorough analysis of the problem to understand its scope and impact. I would promptly engage relevant stakeholders to communicate the issues and gather their insights. From there, I would work collaboratively to develop a corrective action plan, ensuring that we address the root cause while also implementing preventative measures to avoid similar occurrences in the future.

When presenting complex data findings to non-technical stakeholders, I focus on simplifying the information as much as possible without losing the core message. I use visual aids such as charts and graphs to illustrate trends and key points, and I relate data findings to business objectives that are relevant to the audience. Storytelling is also effective; I can narrate a coherent story to explain how the data impacts their work and the organization’s goals.

I have extensive experience developing comprehensive data quality programs that involve multiple work streams. In my previous roles, I systematically assessed data deficiencies, defined clear objectives, and designed specific initiatives to address these gaps. I worked closely with teams to implement these programs, ensuring that all stakeholders were engaged throughout the process. My approach included regular monitoring and analysis to ensure program effectiveness and continuous refinement.

In a fast-paced environment, I prioritize tasks by assessing urgency and impact. I utilize project management tools to track ongoing projects and ensure deadlines are met. By breaking larger projects into manageable tasks, I can allocate resources effectively while maintaining focus on strategic goals. Additionally, I regularly communicate with my team to reassess priorities, ensuring we remain agile and responsive to any changes in the landscape.

My approach to mentoring team members focuses on fostering a collaborative environment where everyone feels empowered to grow. I encourage open dialogue about career aspirations and provide constructive feedback to help them advance their skills. Regular one-on-one check-ins allow us to discuss their progress and set personal development goals. By providing opportunities for hands-on learning and involving them in key projects, I aim to nurture their growth and confidence within the organization.