Visa Cements Atlanta Expansion Deal

Visa is expanding its presence in Atlanta amid a burgeoning FinTech landscape that’s been referred to as the Silicon Valley of the South.

“As Visa continues to grow, it is critical we have a strong local presence in areas where we do meaningful business,” Kim Lawrence, head of the U.S. market at Visa, said in a press release emailed to PYMNTS.

“Growing our presence and workforce in Atlanta will enable Visa to serve our clients more effectively, support talent development and contribute to the long-term success of local communities,” Lawrence said.

See also: Visa’s Business Outlook Study Shows Permanent Digital-First Pivot

Located at 1200 Peachtree St. in Midtown Atlanta, the new office campus will focus on technology and client services but will also offer numerous services by Visa teams. The company is relocating some global and regional administrators and expects the office will eventually comprise about 1,000 employees.

“Atlanta represents an epicenter of financial technology expertise, resilient entrepreneurs, diverse perspectives and a vibrant community culture,” said Michelle Gethers-Clark, chief diversity officer and head of corporate responsibility. She will reside in Atlanta and will assist in leading the new office.

“We are committed to investing in and supporting the robust talent pool in Atlanta with rewarding professional development and growth opportunities,” Gethers-Clark added.

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Visa’s Atlanta expansion in Atlanta complements the region’s growing number of entrepreneurs and local businesses, some of which were assisted by programs like She’s Next, Empowered by Visa, which works to empower women and Black-owned small businesses.

The global digital payments firm plans to grow its partnerships and further invest in Atlanta to offer residents as well as community businesses wider access to education, resources and tools.

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