Monitor and interpret Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover operating regulations, ensuring timely implementation of rule changes affecting merchant acquiring and PayFac programs.
Assess merchant acquiring products, PayFac structures, and transaction flows for adherence to card network requirements, including:
Merchant onboarding and underwriting standards.
MCC assignment and monitoring.
Prohibited and high‑risk merchant activity.
Payment facilitator and ISO sponsorship requirements.
Serve as a subject matter expert for card network compliance inquiries from business, operations, and partner teams.
Conduct periodic card network risk assessments covering operational, compliance, and reputational risk.
Support development and maintenance of key risk indicators (KRIs) related to merchant acquiring.
Monitor network‑defined risk programs and escalate issues as appropriate.
Track, investigate, and remediate card network compliance findings, rule violations, or partner deficiencies.
Collaborate with operations and product teams to implement sustainable remediation and control enhancements.
Support oversight of ISOs, PayFacs, payment processors, and other acquiring‑related third parties.
Maintain and enhance card network compliance policies, procedures, and control documentation.
Provide guidance and training to internal teams on card network rules and merchant acquiring risk.

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Risk Management, Compliance, Business, or a related field.
3–6+ years of experience in merchant acquiring, payments compliance, card networks, or financial institution risk management.
Working knowledge of Visa and Mastercard operating regulations (AmEx and Discover a plus).
Understanding of merchant acquiring structures, including:
Direct merchant models
ISOs
Payment Facilitators / Sub‑merchant models
Experience supporting exams, audits, or card network reviews.
Strong analytical, documentation, and issue‑management skills.
Attention to detail and strong regulatory interpretation skills.
Ability to translate network rules into practical business controls.
Sound judgment and risk‑based decision making.
Clear and concise written communication.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑changing payments environment.

BENEFITS

Medical, dental, vision
401(k) with employer match
Life and long-term disability coverage
HSA and FSA plans
Holidays and paid time off requests
Robust wellness program (we’re talking catered meals three times a weeks, lunch and learns, and onsite gym.)

Merchant Acquiring Risk & Compliance Manager

Key skills