Country Manager - India (Strategic Partnerships & Operational Defense)

About PAYOK

PAYOK is an international payment gateway operating across 7 global markets including India. We specialize in cross-border payment solutions for merchants in high-risk verticals (iGaming, Forex, Crypto Trading, Social Entertainment).

Role Overview

Unlike standard commercial Country Manager positions focused purely on sales/business development, this role requires a strategic, highly influential leader who brings deep-rooted connections and practical authority across Indian Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), Cyber Crime Cells, Regulatory Bodies (NPCI/RBI), and Government Enforcement Departments.

Strong network with senior Cyber Crime/LEA officials, NPCI/RBI stakeholders, and banking risk executives in India is mandatory. Candidates currently working within Cyber Crime, LEA, NPCI, RBI, Police department - high level, or bank risk management departments are highly preferred

Key Responsibilities

1. PG & Banking Partnerships (Business Growth)

• Acquire & Integrate: Identify, negotiate, and onboard licensed local PG, payment institutions, and acquiring banks in India to expand our high-risk processing capacity.
• Commercial Strategy: Structure high-margin commercial agreements and localized payment routing models tailored for high-risk transaction volumes.
• Partner Relations: Build deep executive relationships with banking risk departments to ensure stable, long-term processing rails.

2. Operational Protection & Crisis Management

• Liaison & Escalations: Act as the primary bridge to Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), Cyber Crime Cells, and regulatory bodies (NPCI/RBI).
• Mitigate Risk: Rapidly resolve & prevent account freezing orders, liens, Section 91 notices, and cyber complaints to protect company operations and partner PSPs.
• Strategic Defense: Formulate proactive risk protocols to keep our local payment channels secure, stable, and compliant under changing market conditions.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications

• Proven Network: Active network with senior Cyber Crime/Law Enforcement Agency (LEA) officials, NPCI/RBI stakeholders, and banking risk executives in India, or currently employed within one of these organizations or departments.
• Fintech & High-Risk Expertise: Deep understanding of Indian PG ecosystems, local payment methods (UPI, Netbanking), and high-risk industry dynamics (Gaming, Forex, Crypto).
• Track Record: Demonstrated success in structuring financial partnerships and preventing legal/cyber freezing escalations.
• Mindset: Highly strategic, autonomous operator capable of managing high-stakes negotiations and emergency situations effectively.