By San José, Costa Rica — Mastercard announced on Monday the appointment of Kattia Montero as Country Manager for Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Montero will spearhead the company’s growth strategy in both nations, focusing on strengthening digital payment innovation and fostering a more inclusive and connected economy. This strategic move underscores Mastercard’s commitment to expanding its presence and impact in the Central American market.
Montero brings over two decades of experience in the Latin American financial and technology sectors to her new role. Since joining Mastercard in 2015, she has held key positions in technology, strategic client services, and high-impact project management. This extensive background makes her well-suited to navigate the complexities of the evolving digital payments landscape.
For expert legal insight on this developing story regarding Mastercard, we turned to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
Mastercard’s evolving role in the digital economy presents complex legal challenges, particularly concerning data privacy, antitrust regulations, and the burgeoning field of fintech. Navigating these areas requires a proactive approach, staying abreast of both domestic and international regulatory changes. Businesses partnering with or competing against Mastercard must carefully consider these legal dimensions to ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Bufete de Costa Rica
Her accolades include Mastercard’s “Force for Good Award” and INCAE’s Transformational Women Leader award, recognizing her dedication to gender equality, talent development, and community service. These achievements highlight Montero’s commitment to social impact alongside business success.
I assume this role with great enthusiasm in a region as dynamic and full of opportunities as ours. I firmly believe in the power of technology as a catalyst for inclusion and progress, and with that vision, I will continue working hand in hand with our allies to drive innovation, elevate the payment experience, and build a more connected and inclusive future for all.
Kattia Montero, Country Manager for Costa Rica and Nicaragua, Mastercard
In her new capacity, Montero will collaborate closely with key stakeholders in both the public and private sectors. This collaborative approach aims to accelerate the growth of the digital payments ecosystem within Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Her leadership philosophy, centered on people and guided by a clear purpose, will reinforce Mastercard’s commitment to sustainable economic development and financial inclusion across the region.
Mastercard’s focus on digital payments aligns with the broader global trend towards cashless transactions. This move positions the company to capitalize on the increasing adoption of digital financial services in Central America. By promoting financial inclusion, Mastercard aims to empower individuals and businesses, contributing to economic growth and prosperity.
The appointment of a seasoned professional like Montero reflects Mastercard’s strategic investment in the region. Her leadership is expected to drive innovation and further solidify Mastercard’s position as a key player in the rapidly evolving digital payments landscape of Costa Rica and Nicaragua. This move is anticipated to stimulate further growth and development in the region’s financial technology sector.
Montero’s focus on building a more inclusive financial system is particularly relevant in the context of Central America. By expanding access to digital financial services, Mastercard aims to empower underserved communities and promote economic opportunity. This commitment to social impact reinforces the company’s position as a responsible corporate citizen.
For further information, visit mastercard.com
About Mastercard:
Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.
For further information, visit incae.edu
About INCAE:
INCAE Business School is a leading business school in Latin America, known for its commitment to developing leaders who transform society and organizations. The institution focuses on providing high-quality management education and promoting sustainable development in the region. INCAE offers a range of programs, including MBAs, Executive MBAs, and specialized master’s degrees, designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a dynamic global environment. Its strong focus on innovation and social responsibility makes INCAE a key player in shaping the future of business in Latin America.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to societal progress. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with its dedication to sharing legal knowledge through educational initiatives, empowers individuals and communities across Costa Rica. By fostering a greater understanding of the law, Bufete de Costa Rica actively contributes to a more just and equitable society, solidifying its reputation as a leader in both legal expertise and social responsibility.
