Director of Card Operations

Executive Search Consultant - (Banking & Finance) - "No Commitment. Just a Conversation." Orchard Executive Search has been retained by Rockland Federal Credit Union to help identify a strategic-minded Director of Card Operations to transform the card services program for this forward-thinking, rapidly evolving credit union. If you are a strategic, innovative leader with deep experience in credit, debit, and/or payments and you thrive in environments where vision, authenticity and big ideas are encouraged, this is a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of organizational transformation. No commitment. Just a conversation. Let’s chat Why This Opportunity Stands Out Serving as a key strategic leader, the Director of Card Operations will create Rockland FCU’s card services roadmap, oversee digital transformation in payments and collaborate with a leadership team that values faith over fear, innovation over status quo and personal growth over perfection. The CEO is a charismatic leader who empowers his team to own their space, speak their minds and approach challenges with courage and creativity. This is a hybrid role with significant executive visibility and the chance to influence product development for a credit union on the rise. What We’re Looking For Proven experience leading card operations and payment innovation in a credit union, bank or fintech Track record of building and executing comprehensive strategies for credit cards, debit cards and/or digital payments Strategic thinker with a passion for process improvement and digital transformation Confident, opinionated leader who thrives in collaborative, fast-paced environments Ability to manage vendor relationships, drive operational efficiency and mentor high-performing teams Desire to join a leadership team that values authenticity, accountability and innovation Why You Should Consider This Role This is your chance to join Rockland FCU at a pivotal moment backed by a CEO who believes in hiring utility players, fostering innovation and supporting leaders who take risks and own their mistakes. If you’re ready to step into a visible, high-impact role and help shape the future of a growing financial institution, let’s talk. I am actively scheduling exploratory calls with potential candidates. Should you or anyone you know be interested in learning more, please contact me directly: (C) (W) POSITION DESCRIPTION POSITION TITLE: DIRECTOR OF CARD OPERATIONS (REMOTE WORK: HYBRID) DEPARTMENT: CARD OPERATIONS FUNCTION: Reporting to the Vice President of Payment Solutions, provides executive leadership for the Credit Union’s card services program by developing and executing strategic direction, ensuring regulatory compliance, fostering innovation, and driving portfolio growth. RESPONSIBILITIES Serves as a key leader across the organization, shaping the member experience, optimizing operational performance, and ensuring alignment with the Credit Union’s long-term goals and vision. Leads the execution of the Credit Union’s card services roadmap, ensuring alignment with enterprise objectives and member needs. Provides executive oversight of card operations, including daily processes, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance across all card-related functions. Monitors industry trends, payment innovations, member behavior, and competitive intelligence to drive product development, service enhancements, and digital transformation. Establishes and monitors KPIs and performance benchmarks to track portfolio health, optimize profitability, and inform strategic decisions; provides executive reporting to senior leadership. Manages vendor relationships, including performance reviews, and service level agreements with processors, networks, and technology providers. Oversees the integration of card systems with the core platform and digital banking, ensuring optimal user experience and operational efficiency. Provides executive direction for policy, procedure, and control development to ensure security, scalability, and compliance. Champions continuous improvement through the implementation of operational enhancements, workflow automation, and cost-saving initiatives. Leads, mentors, and develops department leaders and staff, creating a high-performance culture focused on accountability, innovation, and service excellence. Partners across the organization (IT, Fraud, Operations, Compliance, Marketing) to ensure cohesive execution of strategic initiatives and fraud mitigation efforts. Oversees member and employee education strategies around card usage, fraud prevention, and digital engagement. Serves as a strategic partner in the evaluation and deployment of new technologies and card platforms to advance the Credit Union’s competitive position. KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Information Systems, or related field. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in card services, payments, or digital banking, including several years in a senior leadership role, preferably within a credit union or financial services environment. Demonstrated success in strategic planning, product innovation, and cross-functional leadership. Deep understanding of card processing platforms, payment networks (Visa/Mastercard), and the regulatory environment governing card programs. Proven track record of managing large-scale vendor relationships and contract negotiations. Excellent analytical and critical-thinking skills with the ability to develop data-informed strategies. Strong leadership and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization. Proficiency in card management systems, core banking systems, fraud mitigation tools, and digital banking platforms. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment while balancing strategic and operational responsibilities. Physical demands: General office environment. Equipment used: General office equipment. Work schedule: Full-Time, 40 hours per week. #J-18808-Ljbffr