Who We Are

Cyphter is a boutique consulting firm serving independent sales organizations (ISOs) and agents in the electronic payments industry. Our goal is to help you identify opportunities, model financial impacts and institute viable back-office procedures—all with an eye to the dynamic nature of payments. We work on a project basis so you have access to our expert services when you need them, without an ongoing employment commitment.

When I started Cyphter in 2010, I sensed a rising need among ISOs and agents for deep payments expertise on critical near-term projects. My idea was to share the unique combination of industry knowledge and hands-on portfolio management skills I had gained over 12 years in the merchant acquiring business. I understood the views of small private companies and large public corporations, having worked in both. I had also seen all sides of industry mergers and could bring the perspective of each to serve my clients.

It turned out the demand for project-based payments expertise was very real. Today, Cyphter continues to grow by delivering informed, objective strategies and support to busy payments professionals across the industry.

My credentials? Early on, I was lucky to have a seat at the table during the rapid growth of Cardservice International and its subsequent sale to First Data Corporation. Later, I implemented a comprehensive plan to consolidate systems following First Data’s merger with debit titan Concord EFS. I also led transition efforts when First Data’s relationship with Chase Merchant Services ended.

As director of portfolio management for First Data’s independent sales channels, I managed seven distinct business units representing hundreds of agent and ISO relationships worth millions of dollars in revenue. The portfolio spanned four backend platforms and multiple frontends, and I have in-depth knowledge of each. I have also had the chance to work with an increasingly diverse range of payment systems (including TSYS, Vantiv and Global Payments) since founding Cyphter in 2010.

I hold an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, where I specialized in executive management. (More professional details on LinkedIn.)

As a business owner, I understand the rewards and challenges entrepreneurs face, and I enjoy connecting with likeminded professionals from all backgrounds. Feel free to call or send an email if you have questions or just want to talk shop.