Lessons Learned Going to the Top

presented by

Patricia Smith-Thurman

Group Executive for Global Information Products

MasterCard Worldwide 

As Group Executive for the Global Information Products organization at MasterCard Worldwide, Patricia "Pat" Smith-Thurman has responsibility for all phases of computer software development delivery, maintenance and 24/7 support of data warehouse, risk, security, and infrastructure products. Prior to her current role, she was group head of the Financial Services Systems team responsible for all phases of computer software development, maintenance and 24/7 support, including global clearing and settlement.  She earlier served as vice president of financial services systems development, managing delivery of the Global Clearing Management System and other financial applications. She has been with MasterCard for 15 years.

Ms. Smith-Thurman has a strong belief in mentoring and enjoys sharing her knowledge with others.  Her involvement in and dedication to the St. Louis Community has been featured in the St. Louis Business Journal, Diversity Magazine and U.S. Black Engineers Information and Technologymagazine, which honored her with its Excellence Award and in its Centurions of Technical Excellence:100 Women Who Make a Difference in Technology recognition.

Among Ms. Smith-Thurman’s honors is the 2006 YWCA Academy of Leaders, Corporate Executive of the Year in 2007 from the St. Louis American newspaper and the 2008 Navigator Award by the Professional Organization of Women of St. Louis.  She also has been recognized by the St. Louis Urban League, the Regional Chamber and Growth Association, FIRST Robotics and the United Way of Greater St. Louis.  Most recently she was recognized by the St. Louis Business Journal for the 2009 Most Influential Business Women.