Throughout a distinguished career, Joseph W. Saunders has demonstrated a deep concern for global well-being beyond the bottom line. Internationally regarded as one of the most innovative businessmen of his generation, Mr. Saunders’ commitment to corporate citizenship and philanthropy reflect an individual deeply devoted to supporting and empowering a new generation of leaders.

As chairman and chief executive officer of Visa Inc., Mr. Saunders leads a global payments technology company that connects consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments in more than 200 countries and territories.

During his tenure, Mr. Saunders has strengthened Visa’s position as the world’s leading payments technology company. Under his leadership, Visa transformed from a private association of banks into a public company that completed the largest initial public offering in U.S. history in 2008. Since then, Mr. Saunders has built on Visa’s history of innovation, diversifying its business and expanding its product offerings.

Before joining Visa, Mr. Saunders served as president of card services for Washington Mutual, Inc. as well as chief executive officer and chairman of the board of Providian Financial Corporation. Mr. Saunders has also held leadership positions within top financial services companies, including chairman and chief executive officer of Fleet Credit Card Services at FleetBoston Financial Corporation; chairman of MasterCard International’s board of directors; and head of Continental Bank’s credit card division, which is where he started his career.

A Chicago native, Mr. Saunders holds both a B.S. in business administration and an MBA from the University of Denver. He remains active in alumni activities and serves as chairman of the board for Teach For All, the Global Network for Expanding Educational Opportunity.