Former Google Cloud financial services executive to lead the next phase of growth and diversification of the global payments and banking platform powering world-leading fintechs
Galileo, the API standard for card issuing and digital banking, owned and operated independently by SoFi Technologies, Inc., announced it has named technology and innovation leader Derek White as its new chief executive officer. White succeeds Galileo CEO and Founder Clay Wilkes, who becomes vice chair of Galileo and remains a member of the board of directors of SoFi, Galileo’s parent company.
White most recently was vice president of Global Financial Services at Google Cloud, responsible for partnering with banks, insurance companies, fintechs and other financial services entities to redefine their core business units and transition to leading-edge, digital-first operations. White also was responsible for creating new solutions, products and capabilities to meet the evolving needs of Google clients and their customers.
“Galileo and SoFi have made tremendous progress over the last year since closing and I cannot thank Clay enough for building such a phenomenal company and critical technology over the last 20 years. At the time of our acquisition of Galileo, Clay and I discussed a succession plan and I am excited for Clay as he steps into the role of Vice Chairman of Galileo, with Derek taking his place,” said Anthony Noto, CEO of SoFi. “Following an extensive search, it became clear to me, Clay, Galileo and SoFi leadership as well as the Board that Derek is the perfect choice to lead Galileo into the future. His stellar track record of fostering and driving innovation across the global fintech ecosystem will benefit the entire Galileo team and customer base. Derek will lead Galileo to use its proven solutions, technology and expertise to drive continued success and customer adoption to bring Galileo into its next chapter.”
“I’m privileged and honored to take the reins from Clay at a time when Galileo has never been stronger or more focused, now powering so many global leaders in fintech and digital banking,” said Derek White, incoming CEO of Galileo. ”The excitement and momentum at Galileo are palpable. As Galileo continues to shape the future of fintech, I look forward to working with Galileo’s outstanding clients and the talented Galileo team to accelerate our steady stream of technology innovation, creating tremendous value for our clients, their customers, our employees and every Galileo stakeholder.”
White brings to Galileo and its customers more than 20 years of experience in building and transforming financial services. Prior to Google Cloud, he served as the vice chair and chief digital officer for U.S. Bank. Earlier in his career, White was the global head of client solutions for BBVA. He also held leadership roles at Barclays, including chief design and digital officer. Lastly, White held the prestigious position of technology ambassador for London, actively promoting the U.K. market as a fintech capital.
Given his extensive international experience, White will also have responsibility for SoFi Corporation International as the company develops plans for further expansion outside the U.S. for all of the company’s existing and potential new products and services.
White holds an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a bachelor’s degree from Utah State University. He lives in Utah with his wife and their four children.
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