„“John brings extensive global operational experience, and since January, has been managing all First Data businesses outside of North America. He has deep knowledge of the many different countries and their market potential, revenues, and current market penetration for our issuing and acquiring businesses,” said First Data Chief Executive Officer Jon Judge. “The global leadership that John brings to this new role will allow us to keep our forward momentum with no disruption to the strategy and plans we have in place. We are fortunate to have John serving in this role, guiding our long-term strategies in these important growth markets.““ “Markets outside North America offer First Data great opportunities for investment and long-term growth,” said Elkins. “The expansion and growth of electronic payments around the world, in emerging markets and within First Data, underscores my enthusiasm for taking on this assignment. During the last 20 years of my career I have had the benefit of running or starting companies in many countries and markets around the world, as diverse as Saudi Arabia and China, and I am pleased to now work with our leaders in global markets outside North America.” Prior to joining First Data, Elkins served as a senior advisor at McKinsey and Company. He also previously served as executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Visa International. Elkins is the founder and former chairman and CEO of FutureBrand, a worldwide corporate brand, retail, industrial and packaging strategy and design consultancy that immediately became one of the leading global enterprises in the marketing communications sector when it launched in 1999. www.firstdata.com