UPstanding executive

UPstanding executive
"We are delighted to see Ron (Rohinton) Kalifa from Worldpay featuring in the inaugural UPstanding Executive Power List. Ron is a true role model, setting an example for the next generation so no one sees their race as a barrier to success,” said Suki Sandhu, UPstanding founder. The Upstanding list that was compiled by Audeliss in partnership with the Financial Times aims to showcase and rank the top 100 executive BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) professionals working in the US and UK. Kalifa who is vice chairman and executive board director of Worldpay Group plc, and also sits on the boards of Visa Europe, QIWI plc, and UK Cards Association Ltd, ranked 50 out of 100.

Rohinton Kalifa (left) with Prince Charles

"We aim to ensure our workforce reflects the diversity of our global customer base, and we have a long-standing commitment to bringing out the best in people while fostering a sense of community and belonging. Initiatives like this are a powerful statement that attitudes are changing and we are making genuine progress,” declared Kalifa.
All nominations were reviewed by a panel consisting of Sandhu and Sophia Cannon, founders of the UPstanding Executive Power List, as also senior executives from the Financial Times, Unilever, The Economist, Barclays UK and Pinnacle Group. Audeliss is a five-year-old boutique executive search firm which specializes in the recruitment of diverse talent to senior executive and non-executive positions.
Kalifa has been a driving figure behind the success of Worldpay, one of the world’s largest payments companies, which last year became UK’s most significant fintech IPO (Initial Public Offering) when it was listed on the London Stock Exchange (current valuation: £5.2bn or $7.6bn). "We provide an extensive range of technology-led payment products and services to over 400,000 customers, enabling their businesses to grow and prosper… Using our network and technology, we are able to process payments from geographies covering 99% of global GDP (gross domestic product), across 146 countries and 126 currencies,” notes a press release from Claire Hardy, head of external communications at Worldpay.
In March 2016, Kalifa had been named "Acquiring Personality of the Year” at the Ninth Annual Merchant Payment Ecosystems (MPE) Awards 2016. The event, held in Berlin, singled out key players from across card acquiring and recognized their outstanding role and contributions to shaping the industry. "These awards are aimed at honoring companies and individuals who help to move the industry forward…”
Before taking over as vice chairman and executive director of the Worldpay Group in 2013, Kalifa was chief executive officer of the business for over 10 years (see "Wonders with Worldpay,” Zoroastrians Abroad, Parsiana, December 7, 2015).