Kareem Elghazzawi
Cairo
Summary
Results-driven professional with 18+ years of experience in the banking and financial services sector, specializing in payment systems, IT operations, and project management. Proven track record in developing and implementing innovative card payment solutions, optimizing operational processes, and leading cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives. Skilled in managing complex projects, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and driving continuous service improvement.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
year of post-secondary education
8
8
Certifications
Work History
Head of Payments and Cards Development
Egyptian Gulf Bank (EGBank)
12.2020 - Current
- • Led the development and launch of new debit and credit card products, driving growth and profitability.
• Managed end-to-end technical projects with Visa and MasterCard, ensuring compliance with industry mandates.
• Spearheaded the implementation of digital payment solutions, including mobile wallets and loyalty programs.
• Payments and Card Development:
- Led the development and launch of new debit and credit card products, including the Meeza Debit Cards and the implementation of onetime passwords for enhanced security.
• Digital Transformation:
- Managed the expansion of e-finance governmental services, resulting in a 20% growth in e-payments for governmental transactions.
- Spearheaded the rollout of wearable devices, achieving a 10% market penetration within the first year.
• Operational Excellence:
- Oversaw the integration of Core Pay, streamlining payment processes and reducing transaction times by 30%.
- Launched an e-statement service that reduced paper usage by 40%, supporting the bank’s sustainability initiatives.
• Directed the successful rollout of major projects such as Meeza Debit Cards and wearable payment devices.
• Optimized the customer onboarding process, reducing friction points and enhancing user experience.
• Ensured adherence to CBE regulations, banking laws, and internal policies, maintaining a strong compliance record.
Cards and Payments Manager
Egyptian Gulf Bank (EGBank)
- Enhanced existing payment products, aligning them with market trends and customer needs
- Managed system parameters for credit and debit products, ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance
- Collaborated with business and IT teams to deliver seamless user acceptance testing (UAT) for new products and features
- Addressed and resolved operational issues related to card transactions, chargebacks, and cross-border activities.
Operation Section Head - Operations
The Egyptian Credit Bureau (I-Score)
04.2014 - 12.2020
- Administered data systems and applications, serving as the focal point for ad hoc requests and new requirements
- Managed data loading cycles, ensuring timely and accurate processing of banks' and CBE’s data
- Led the Data Loading Cycle Automation Project, significantly improving process efficiency
- Provided coaching and performance management for team members, fostering a high-performing work environment
- Assisted in upgrading the Credit Verdict System to SBX, ensuring seamless transition and implementation.
Senior Self Services & Software Support Specialist
Arab Bank PLC Egypt
01.2006 - 03.2014
- Delivered high-quality IT support across the bank, ensuring adherence to IT policies and procedures
- Managed and supported various IT systems, including branch automation, ATM systems, and HR applications
- Coordinated with external vendors and internal teams to address IT service needs and implement system enhancements
- Conducted training and knowledge transfer sessions to build capacity within the IT support team
- Oversaw the upgrade of ATM software, improving system reliability and functionality.
Education
Bachelor of Computer Science -
Modern Science and Arts University (MSA)
01.2003 - 04.2004
Skills
Team Leadership
Operations Management
Strategic Planning
Performance Management
Websites
Certification
Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) - Reqmaster
Timeline
Head of Payments and Cards Development
Egyptian Gulf Bank (EGBank)
12.2020 - Current
Operation Section Head - Operations
The Egyptian Credit Bureau (I-Score)
04.2014 - 12.2020
Senior Self Services & Software Support Specialist
Arab Bank PLC Egypt
01.2006 - 03.2014
Bachelor of Computer Science -
Modern Science and Arts University (MSA)
01.2003 - 04.2004
Cards and Payments Manager
Egyptian Gulf Bank (EGBank)
Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) - Reqmaster
CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate
MCSE: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (XP and Windows Server Track)
Mastercard Academy Training on Operations and Business Excellence
Time & Stress Management - Logic
Leadership Skills - Logic
Managing Change - American University in Cairo (AUC)
Operation Management - IMI
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