American Express Creates New Technology Hub in Silicon ValleyPalo Alto-based technology team will build new capabilities in big data, cloud computing and mobile
NEW YORK and PALO ALTO, CA, December 11, 2014 — American Express today announced the opening of a new technology hub in Palo Alto, expanding its presence in Silicon Valley. The new team being assembled will focus on innovations in big data, cloud computing and mobile infrastructure.
“Technology innovation is driving the company’s ongoing digital transformation, and our team in Silicon Valley is focusing on core capabilities that we expect to be key to our ability to continue to innovate and move our business forward,” said Marc Gordon, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer. “By developing infrastructure and frameworks to be used broadly across the organization, the team in Palo Alto will play a crucial role in our global business growth and future success.”
Chief Technology Officer Nik Sathe, who previously served in executive roles at Google and PayPal, overseeing the development of digital payments capabilities and platforms, will be the senior executive based at the Palo Alto hub.
Over time, American Express expects to employ some 200 individuals in the Palo Alto hub. The company chose the location, in part, to cultivate the technology talent building their skills locally at technology firms, in the start-up community and at area universities.
“The Silicon Valley is rich in technology talent who will be instrumental in building the platforms that enable the delivery of products and services that continue to enhance our customers’ experience and address their ever-evolving needs,” stated Nik Sathe. “Engineers at American Express have the opportunity to scale their impact across hundreds of our developers and millions of our loyal customers around the globe. We’re excited to be able to tap into the Silicon Valley talent pool to grow this team and set up our business for long-term success.” The company’s recent technology-driven innovations include American Express® Card availability on Apple Pay™, and the capability for eligible U.S. Card Members enrolled in the Membership Rewards® program to redeem points in select McDonald’s restaurants, through the Uber app and in certain New York City taxi cabs.* The Technology team last month also announced the redesign of its customer website, which employs “responsive” design that delivers a high-quality web experience across all form factors – desktops, laptops and mobile devices.
The new location also houses the American Express Ventures team, which since 2011 has been investing in early stage start-ups in the areas of digital commerce, financial inclusion and core capabilities such as data and analytics, security and servicing.
About American Express
American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, foursquare.com/americanexpress, linkedin.com/company/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress.
Key links to products and services: charge and credit cards, business credit cards, travel services, gift cards, prepaid cards, merchant services, corporate card, and business travel.
*Terms and conditions apply to the programs mentioned above. See here for more details:
- Apple PayTM with American Express
- Membership Rewards® program
- Membership Rewards® – McDonald’s
- Membership Rewards® – Uber
- Membership Rewards® – Taxi
The capability to redeem Membership Rewards® points at McDonald’s is expected to roll out to all participating U.S. locations by December 2014.
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SOURCE: American Express