Grace Hayes

Tell us more about your background

My current position is Executive Vice President of Global Market Technology in Mastercard. Mastercard is a technology company in the global payments industry, operating the world's fastest payment processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments, and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories.  Our technology platforms ensure Mastercard is keeping pace with evolving business needs, and can quickly capitalize on new opportunities, protect our systems, and support innovation. My role enables our technology to navigate and translate dynamic and innovative global market trends.  

In previous roles in Mastercard, I have led global teams, including Head of European Product Delivery, and leadership in our Commercial and Real Time Payments businesses. Prior to joining Mastercard, I worked in MBNA, Bank of America for 12 years, where I held several management roles across Customer Service and Operations, Program and Delivery Management. 

What is the one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?

Integrity is a characteristic that stands out above all, as it forms the foundation for building trust and fosters a positive work environment. Integrity for me as a leader means adhering to a strong set of ethical values and principles. It's about doing what is right, even when it's difficult or unpopular. Leaders with integrity demonstrate consistency between their words and actions, earning the trust and respect of their team. Clarity, sincerity and empathy are fast follows.

What is the most important lesson, from your personal or business life, that has guided you the most in being a business leader?

Important lessons are often learned during challenging situations.  It’s so important to maintain a sense of calm, understanding the situation from all angles.  Active listening is critical for any leader to learn and understand from their teams, and as a leader, it’s important that you build your team up, to have the best expertise around you.

Is there someone who has had a major impact on you as a leader? Why and how did this person impact your life?

I have been incredibly fortunate to work with inspiring leaders, mentors and sponsors across my career and a great learning from them over the years is that each of them created their own path, leading in their own unique way. From them I deeply understood the importance of embracing my own unique leadership style, embracing the power of setting my own career path and pace and elevating those around me, over competition. 

What are the biggest business challenges that you have seen over your career to date? And how do you help to overcome these?

Navigating change, especially when it’s a change outside of your control. Given the rapidly evolving technology and geopolitical world we live in; change is constant and often unpredictable, and adaptability is essential.  I find the best way to navigate is to stay curious, be open to learning, seek advice and collaboration and build a strong sense of social and cultural awareness. 

How do you think business leaders can best prepare for the future?

Staying ahead by continuously exploring new technologies and innovations, establishing an organizational culture of lifelong learning is key. Encouraging teams to seek out complex challenges, problem solving and developing critical thinking.   Finally, cultivating strong relationships where teams use their initiative and persistence to build resilience and leadership skills of the future. 

What do you particularly value from your IoD membership? 

I mentioned I’m a life-long learner, so I value access not only to the events, workshops and training programs available, but also the chance to connect with other leaders and industry experts.  We are all navigating complex challenges, with social, political, economic, and environmental flavours, across many industries and the opportunity to network, learn and grow in the community is invaluable.

What advice would you offer to new or aspiring directors in Ireland?

Dream big!!  Careers evolve over time and it's so important to invest in yourself to enjoy what you do. Working on what motivates you will deliver the best results, so unlock any boundaries that may have been set and explore a rapidly evolving future of potential. 

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”— Eleanor Roosevelt.