Mastercard Adds Ex-CIA Director To Cybersecurity Team

Mastercard announced news late last week that it named Jeanne Tisinger a senior advisor for cybersecurity.

In a press release, the payments company said that in the role, Tisinger will contribute to the implementation and expansion of the company’s security strategy and public policy initiatives. Tisinger will also add to programs focused on enhancing current and future talent in these areas.

Tisinger joins Mastercard after three decades at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). She most recently served as a deputy director, where she was responsible for the agency’s physical security and cybersecurity infrastructure and information technology across more than 100 countries.

Earlier in her career, Tisinger was the chief information officer and director of global infrastructure, managing and coordinating the CIA’s data analytics programs. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree from George Mason University.

“Jeanne’s experience speaks for itself,” says Tim Murphy, general counsel and chief franchise officer, Mastercard in the press release. “As we continue to develop and implement cutting-edge technologies, we’ll draw on her experience working with businesses and government entities to deliver the maximum impact for our customers and partners.”

In the press release, Mastercard said it has been a leader in making payments safer for merchants and their customers by embracing technologies like chip cards, tokens and artificial intelligence. As technology revolutionizes everyday activities, companies continue to invest significant resources to update and reinforce security products and services, the company noted.

“People shouldn’t have to choose between convenience and security. They want to have the peace of mind that their personal information, money and identity are secure. That’s what Jeanne has done throughout her career and what she’ll add to our team,” said Ajay Banga, president and CEO of Mastercard, in the same press release.

Late last month, Mastercard underscored its commitment to new technology by announcing the Mastercard Consumer Control, which allows consumers to view their credit card information that is stored online. The program is an API that displays where payment details are kept, allowing cardholders to understand how that information is being used.