Senior Manager, Payments

Senior Manager, Payments

60 years after Geoffrey Kent founded A&K, we’re still setting the standard for adventurous, luxury holidays. Whichever role you join us in, whether customer facing or behind the scenes, everyone has their part to play in creating one-of-a-kind journeys that go beyond our clients’ high expectations.

With 55 offices worldwide and an unmatched network of connections across the globe, we offer adventures that can’t be experienced with any other tour provider. Working with a team of passionate and knowledgeable people, you’ll be able to open doors to private palaces, book Michelin-starred meals in the most remote locations and arrange out-of-hours museum tours. There’s always a buzz in the office about the latest ways we’ve gone the extra mile. 

PURPOSE:

The Senior Manager, Payments will be the first dedicated payments role within Abercrombie & Kent, making this an exciting opportunity to shape the future of the company’s payment strategies and processes on a global scale. This individual will work closely with the Group Treasurer to optimize payment types, support partnerships teams, manage global acquiring and virtual card processing.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

·      Develop and execute a comprehensive payments roadmap to support Abercrombie & Kent's global operations.

·      Analyse current payment systems and identify opportunities for optimisation, ensuring efficiency, security, and scalability.

·      Recommend and implement new payment types and technologies that improve both customer experience and business operations.

·      Manage relationships with payment processors and card issuers, including overseeing global acquiring processes.

·      Ensure the security and compliance of all payment processes across multiple regions and currencies.

·      Scope and implementation of virtual card payments.

·      Work closely with the engineering and commercial teams to ensure seamless integration of payment systems with external partners and merchants.

·      Provide expert advice on payment-related matters, ensuring alignment with company objectives.

·      Support the Group Treasurer in managing payment operations globally.

ABOUT YOU:

·      Minimum of 7+ years’ experience in a payments or financial services role, with a strong background in global payments, acquiring, or virtual card processing.

·      Experience within the travel, hospitality, or e-commerce sectors is highly desirable.

·      Proven track record of optimizing payment systems, improving efficiency, and enhancing customer experience.

·      Substantial knowledge of payment technologies and systems, including global payment gateways, merchant services, and virtual card solutions.

·      Familiarity with financial systems, ERP software, and payment processing platforms.

·      Understanding of payment security protocols, fraud prevention, and compliance (e.g., PCI DSS).

·      Strong ability to assess and implement payment solutions in a global context, balancing strategic priorities with operational effectiveness.

·      Highly analytical, with the ability to leverage data and reports to make informed decisions and drive process improvements.

·      Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to non-technical stakeholders.

·      Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally with teams such as partnerships, finance, and IT to deliver integrated payment solutions.

·      A results-orientated, proactive, and detail-driven individual with a passion for travel and technology.

·      A team player who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

·      Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.

WHAT WE OFFER:

·      Competitive salary plus annual bonus plan

·      Enhanced Paid Parental Leave – 18 weeks full pay

·      Discounted trips through A&K Travel Group Travel Benefit Program (includes friends and family)

·      Company pension plan from start of employment, with employer contributions increasing after 5 and 10 years of service

·      25 days annual leave – in addition to bank holidays, plus the ability to buy an additional 5 days or sell 5 days

·      Life Assurance (2x or 4x base salary depending on job level and/or length of service)

·      Employee Assistance Program – includes access to wellbeing resources and counselling

·      £1,000 Recruitment Referral Bonus

·      Discounted gym membership

·      Cycle to work scheme

·      Season Ticket Loans

·      Regular Social Events

Why work for A&K

What makes A&K a great place to work is the people. It’s our people who foster the supportive environment that will make you proud to work for A&K. There will also be ongoing training and the opportunity to progress your career – not just in the UK, but as part of our global business.

We’re also a company that makes a difference. Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy (AKP) has supported local communities around the world for the past 40 years, and we were recognised by Which? for looking after our clients during the pandemic.