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 Note: A standard sales / business development profile alone is insufficient. We require a leader who holds both commercial deal-making experience and strong authority/networks within Indian police, cyber cells, or regulatory frameworks. 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.