Electronic Transactions Association Names New Board of Directors for 2026 to Guide Payments Industry Innovation
The Electronic Transactions Association (ETA) has officially announced the members of its 2026 Board of Directors. This distinguished group will oversee and guide the vital aspects of the payments ecosystem, which is fundamental for modern commerce. Notably, the first meeting of this newly formed board will take place at the TRANSACT conference, scheduled between March 18-20 in Atlanta, Georgia.
The composition of this board reflects a commitment to secure, seamless, and effective digital commerce for both merchants and consumers around the globe. With its combined experience and expertise, this Board is expected to provide strategic direction to the association as it works toward enhancing policy measures, education initiatives, and collaborative efforts across the entire payments value chain.
Jodie Kelley, the CEO of ETA, expressed enthusiasm about the caliber of leadership represented in this board, stating, "ETA is fortunate to be guided by a board composed of leaders who have shaped the payments industry and continue to define its future." The insight and focus these members bring are seen as crucial for advancing safe and innovative payment solutions amid shifting consumer expectations and technological advancements.
Indeed, the ETA Board of Directors holds a significant responsibility in setting the strategic direction of the association. They play a crucial role in prioritizing advocacy for public policy, educational efforts within the industry, and fortifying partnerships across the payments ecosystem. The upcoming meeting at TRANSACT signifies ETA's commitment to being the premier platform that advocates for industry leadership, fostering partnerships, and driving innovation.
The 2026 ETA Board of Directors is comprised of distinguished leaders:
1. Jamie Walker, Head of Digital Assets and Money Movement at US Bank, serves as the President.
2. Bruce Lowthers, CEO and Executive Director at Paysafe, takes on the role of President Elect.
3. Christopher Sweetland, SVP and Global Head of Payments Markets Partnerships at PayPal, is named Treasurer.
4. Kathryn Cleary, Head of Merchant Solutions at PNC Bank, is the Secretary.
5. Derek Webster, Founder and CEO of CardFlight, serves as the Past President.
The Board includes an impressive array of directors: Todd Ablowitz from Infinicept, Chiro Aikat from Mastercard, Jim Allen of Wells Fargo Merchant Services, and many others from leading organizations within the payments space. This cross-section of expertise plays an integral role in managing and guiding the trajectory of ETA's objectives.
The Electronic Transactions Association, as the world’s leading advocacy and trade association for the payments industry, brings together some of the most significant players in the financial technology arena. Collectively, ETA members process a staggering $56.75 trillion in payments annually, supporting both traditional and emerging forms of commerce, and driving innovative solutions for consumers and businesses alike.
As the digital payment landscape continues to evolve, the focus on security and innovation remains paramount. The expertise of the new board members is expected to fuel ongoing discussions around best practices in the industry and promoting educational initiatives that benefit all stakeholders in the payments ecosystem. The TRANSACT event will undoubtedly serve as a vital venue for these conversations, setting the stage for new ideas and strategies that can adapt to the fast-paced changes in consumer behavior and technological advancements.
In summary, the 2026 Board of Directors for ETA is strategically positioned to tackle the pressing challenges and opportunities faced by the payments industry. Their forward-thinking approach promises to guide the organization in fulfilling its mission of enhancing the payments landscape for both merchants and consumers worldwide.