American Express Australia Limited has announced the appointment of Lisa Vehrenkamp to the position of Managing Director and Chairman of the Board.

As well as leading the business, Ms Vehrenkamp is responsible for marketing, acquisition, product development and co-brand partnerships for American Express’ International Consumer and Small Business Services operation in Australia and New Zealand. 

“Australia is an important market for American Express.  Since 1954, our local business has forged a position as a leading payment, network and travel company built on the foundations of exceptional service.  I’m thrilled to be leading the company at a time of enormous innovation to deliver services that make life easier, safer and more rewarding for consumers and businesses”, said Lisa Vehrenkamp.  

Ms Vehrenkamp joined American Express in 1996.  Prior to her current appointment she held the position of Senior Vice President and General Manager for American Express Global Corporate Payments for the Asia Pacific Region.  In this role she was responsible for driving regional strategy, business development and the ongoing performance of the business which provides corporate card and expense management solutions to medium and large corporations.

Ms Vehrenkamp has also worked in American Express’ Global Merchant Services and Global Prepaid Services businesses based in New York. 

Originally from Minnesota in the United States, Ms Vehrenkamp moved to Sydney in January 2009.   She holds a MBA in Marketing and Finance from New York University. 

Ms Vehrenkamp replaces former Managing Director, Pierric Beckert who has been promoted to the position of Executive Vice President of Pricing and Business Development for American Express Global Merchant Services, in New York.