Card Payments Acceleration Lead Consultant

Tibula Consulting | Dubai, UAE | 6-Month Contract We are looking for an experienced Card Payments Acceleration Lead to join a strategic project for one of our leading global clients in Dubai, UAE.This is a 6-month outsourced consulting opportunity, with the possibility of extension, focused on accelerating digital payment solutions, strengthening card economics, and developing scalable payment acceptance models across emerging markets.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement strategies to accelerate card-based payments and improve commercial performance.Analyze issuer and acquirer economics, pricing structures, processing costs, and revenue opportunities.Lead the design and commercialization of digital-first and Virtual Card Number (VCN) enabled payment solutions.Define product requirements, customer journeys, operating models, and go-to-market strategies.Identify opportunities to expand payment acceptance and transaction volumes across agricultural and related ecosystems.Develop business cases, implementation roadmaps, and actionable recommendations.Collaborate with product, technology, commercial, legal, and risk teams to drive successful execution.Present strategic insights and recommendations to senior stakeholders.QualificationsStrong professional background in payments, card products, digital financial services, fintech, or banking.In-depth understanding of card issuing, acquiring, processing, and payment ecosystems.Proven experience in payment product development, pricing strategy, commercialization, or business growth.Experience designing customer journeys, operating models, and go-to-market strategies.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.Ability to manage complex initiatives independently and translate strategic objectives into practical solutions.Excellent communication and presentation skills.Experience in emerging markets, SME banking, agriculture financing, financial inclusion, or ecosystem-based business models is a plus.