Joseph Stark is a seasoned financial services leader with an impressive track record in international payments, sales management, and product strategy. With over four decades of experience driving growth and innovation in the financial sector, he has played a pivotal role in expanding multinational sales, managing large-scale P&L operations, and strengthening strategic partnerships with global banking institutions. His expertise spans new business development, revenue optimization, financial team leadership, and the advancement of digital payment solutions. A recognized industry thought leader, Stark has been a frequent speaker at major financial conferences, including AFP, NACHA, and SIBOS.
Currently serving as Head of Banks Account Management and Sales for Visa Direct at Visa, Stark has led transformative initiatives that have significantly expanded Visa Direct’s footprint across the banking industry. He has been instrumental in refining the team’s strategic focus on the top ten U.S. national banks, strengthening key relationships, and driving new mandates. Under his leadership, Visa Direct has seen substantial transaction volume growth, particularly through expanded commercial and treasury banking solutions. His ability to leverage cross-border payment rails—such as ACH, card networks, and digital wallets—has further cemented Visa’s position as a leader in the payments ecosystem. Notably, Stark spearheaded Visa’s acquisition and integration of Earthport in 2019, a strategic move that enhanced Visa Direct’s global payment capabilities.
Prior to joining Visa, Stark served as Head of Americas at Earthport, where he built and managed a high-performance sales and account management team, driving 40% business growth in fiscal 2017. He successfully expanded Earthport’s strategic focus beyond traditional banking, establishing a presence in the high-tech sector and opening new offices in San Francisco and Latin America. His efforts in market evangelization and client engagement positioned Earthport as a key player in the cross-border payments industry, ultimately leading to its acquisition by Visa.
Before his tenure at Earthport, Stark spent six years at Standard Chartered Bank, holding key leadership positions in financial crime compliance and product management. As Regional Head of Product Management for the Americas, he directed payments, USD clearing, trade finance, FX payments, and liquidity management, overseeing a $500 million onshore product P&L. His strategic initiatives contributed to significant liability and asset growth, and he played an active role in compliance and regulatory committees. His deep regulatory knowledge and ability to navigate complex financial frameworks made him a key liaison between business management and compliance operations.
Stark’s career foundation was built during his extensive tenure at JPMorgan Chase, where he held multiple executive roles from 1986 to 2010. As Product Executive for Treasury Services, he managed a $100 million P&L, led global marketing efforts, and launched several innovative financial products. He also served as Head of Marketing for Treasury & Securities Services (TSS) in EMEA & Asia Pacific, where he directed marketing operations across six international offices and played a crucial role in executive communication and strategic planning. Additionally, in his role as Asia Regional Head for MNC Sales, he led corporate banking strategies for multinational corporations, successfully positioning JPMorgan as a trusted partner for regional treasury operations.
Stark holds an MBA from Fordham University and a Bachelor of Arts from Fairfield University. He has earned multiple industry certifications, including the Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) designation from the Association for Financial Professionals. He is an active member of the Bankers Association for Finance and Trade (BAFT) North American Council and has received numerous professional accolades, such as the JPMorgan Chairman’s Circle Award and the Treasury Services Asia Product Manager of the Year award.
Recognized for his ability to drive financial performance, foster strong client relationships, and lead high-performing teams, Joseph Stark continues to be a driving force in the global payments industry, shaping the future of cross-border money movement and financial technology innovation.
Character
Joseph Stark is a results-driven leader known for his relentless drive, integrity, and commitment to empowering teams while fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
Knowledge
With deep expertise in international payments, financial compliance, and strategic sales management, Joseph Stark has successfully navigated complex banking ecosystems, regulatory landscapes, and product innovations to drive sustained business growth.
Strategic
Joseph Stark has a proven ability to identify market opportunities, expand revenue streams, and execute large-scale business transformations that enhance profitability and strengthen industry positioning.
Communication
A dynamic and influential communicator, Joseph Stark excels in building strong client relationships, delivering compelling industry insights, and representing global financial institutions as a trusted voice in key industry forums.
