PEOPLE IN THE NEWS: MasterCard Names Two to Key Posts for Global Push

MasterCard International announced two key executive appointments that it said will further strengthen and streamline the organization for global expansion.

It promoted Joseph V. Tripodi to senior vice president and head of global marketing, products, and services. And it hired Christopher D. Thom from Midland Bank in London as executive vice president, franchise management.

The two will report to H. Eugene Lockhart, president and chief executive officer. Mr. Lockhart was himself a top executive at Midland Bank.

Mr. Lockhart was not available for an interview, but a MasterCard spokesman said the chief executive wishes to emphasize the global nature and growth of the MasterCard payment system. "He wants us to look at every initiative on a global scale, whether it be advertising or branding," the spokesman said. "He wants a global look."

Mr. Lockhart believes a stronger products and services unit can bring cobranded, chip, and debit cards and other growth initiatives more quickly to fruition both domestically and internationally.

Mr. Tripodi accordingly will be responsible for marketing, product management and development, and services on a global scale.

He has been with the New York-based card association since 1989. Based in Paris as vice president, Europe, he managed the relationship with MasterCard's Belgium-based affiliate, Europay International.

He recently directed MasterCard's worldwide marketing and advertising programs tied to the 1994 World Cup soccer tournament.

Also joining Mr. Lockhart's revamped and growing inner circle, Mr. Thom will oversee member licensing, operating rules, and compliance. He will direct risk management policies and international security and policy committees. He will also ensure member compliance with company standards.

Mr. Thom will move to New York this month after 27 years at Midland Bank, most recently as general manager, strategic development. Previously, as general manager, retail, Mr. Thom was responsible for card services, electronic banking, and core banking services and products delivered through the bank's branch network.

At the same time, MasterCard announced the retirement of David Brangaccio, senior vice president, franchise management and administration.

In 15 years at the company, Mr. Brangaccio played key administrative and franchise management roles - last year, MasterCard licensed 625 new members - as the association expanded its international focus.

Mr. Brangaccio also was involved in MasterCard's move of headquarters to Purchase, N.Y., scheduled for completion this fall. His relocation responsibilities will fall under the new senior vice president of facilities and administration, Mike Siegfried.

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