Next week, we’re hosting our Women in Payments Luncheon—an event dedicated to honoring the women driving innovation, leadership, and impact across the payments ecosystem.
In the spirit of celebration, we asked women throughout the industry to share their insights, offering advice, lessons learned, and reflections on what it means to lead in the payments space.
Their responses were thoughtful, candid, and together echoed a shared truth: that curiosity, community, and courage are at the heart of every great career in payments.
1. Start with Curiosity—and Never Stop Asking Questions
One common thread across all the responses? The power of asking questions.
“When I first joined the payments industry, I found it a bit overwhelming. A mentor told me to ask questions. And then ask more questions. It was such helpful advice. The industry can seem so daunting, but like anything, if you take it step by step, it’s much more digestible.”
Amber Ketchum, Director of Growth Marketing, Equifax
“Find others who know more than you about payments and ask questions—this will help you grow your knowledge and network.” Bonnie Holland, Director, Business Development, Mastercard
Staying curious isn’t just a way to learn, it’s a mindset that helps you uncover new opportunities, build confidence, and deepen your expertise.
2. Build a Community—And Be Part of One
Support systems matter. And in an industry that moves as fast as payments, the relationships you build along the way can be just as important as the work itself.
“Family and community are concepts that tend to resonate with women in general. The world of payments is an amazing community with countless opportunities to engage, network, and learn… Don’t be afraid to jump in and take advantage. Lean in for support and provide that support to others along the way.” Laura Woop, Senior Director of Risk, Payments, Fraud, Credit, Tiffany
“Networking is crucial in any industry, but especially in payments where relationships can lead to new opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations.”Maureen Elworthy, Head of Multi Industry Payment Solutions, JPMorgan
Mentors, peers, and allies aren’t just nice to have, they’re often the key to staying informed, supported, and seen.
3. Embrace Conflict—and Growth
Leadership isn’t about always having the right answers, it’s about having the confidence to speak up and the humility to listen. That includes embracing healthy conflict.
“The most valuable—and most challenging—lesson I’ve learned as a leader is that constructive conflict is a good thing. Many women tend to take conflict personally, but it’s not about us—it’s about finding the best solution. Overcoming this mindset was critical for me.” Patricia Partelow, Managing Director, Payment Competency Leader, EY
Productive conflict can lead to stronger outcomes, better decisions, and deeper trust especially when handled with respect and purpose.
4. Stay Curious, Stay Agile
In a field shaped by regulation and innovation, adaptability is a must.
“The payments industry is rapidly evolving with new technologies and regulations. Staying informed about industry trends and being adaptable to change is essential for success.”
Maureen Elworthy, Head of Multi Industry Payment Solutions, JPMorgan
“As women in the payments industry, it is important to stay endlessly curious. This industry is broad and always evolving. You don’t need to know everything, but by exploring perspectives beyond your immediate focus, you’ll uncover insights that strengthen your work and expand your impact.” Jennifer Watkins, Director of Payments, ARC
The willingness to explore, experiment, and evolve isn’t just how you grow,it’s how you lead.
5. Make Space for Others—and Advocate for Yourself
Representation and visibility matter. And as more women take on leadership roles in payments, they’re not just building careers, they’re helping reshape the industry.
“What excites me most is how women are not just participating in the future of payments—we’re helping shape it in bold, creative ways. There’s so much energy and innovation when we make space for new perspectives, and I’m proud to be part of that movement.”Kim Jennings, Senior Event Manager, Nuvei
“It’s important to advocate for oneself—whether it’s negotiating for a promotion, salary, or taking on new responsibilities.” Maureen Elworthy, Head of Multi Industry Payment Solutions, JPMorgan
Supporting other women and speaking up for yourself aren’t mutually exclusive, they’re both critical to changing the status quo.
Final Thoughts
The next generation of women in payments will face new challenges, but they’ll also step into an industry shaped by the courage, insight, and leadership of those who came before them.
Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your career, the message from these leaders is clear: stay curious, build your network, embrace the hard conversations, and don’t be afraid to take up space.
Because the future of payments isn’t just being built, it’s being redefined.
By women like you.