Mastercard Inaugurates State-of-the-Art Tech Hub in Pune, India

Pune, India | October 16, 2024 – In a significant move to bolster its technological capabilities and expand its footprint in India, Mastercard has officially inaugurated a new Tech Hub in Pune. This state-of-the-art facility, spread over nearly half a million square meters, is set to play a pivotal role in advancing Mastercard’s global technology strategy while supporting the company’s growth in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

A Global Tech Hub Ecosystem

The Pune Tech Hub is the latest addition to Mastercard’s expansive global Tech Hub ecosystem, which includes locations in Arlington, Dublin, New York, St. Louis, Sydney, and Vancouver. With this new facility, Mastercard aims to enhance collaboration among its various hubs, fostering innovation and technological advancements that will shape the future of commerce.

Workforce and Expertise

Located in the bustling Bluegrass Business Park in Yerwada, Pune, the Tech Hub is designed to accommodate over 6,000 technologists, engineers, and experts from diverse backgrounds. This diverse workforce will encompass a wide range of disciplines, including software development, finance, data architecture, and cybersecurity. Notably, this makes Pune Mastercard’s largest workforce in a single city globally, underscoring the city’s importance in the company’s operational strategy.

Mastercard’s Commitment to India

Mastercard has had a presence in India for over four decades, and its commitment to the country has only grown stronger over time. Since establishing its first Tech Hub in Pune in 2014, the company has significantly expanded its workforce, demonstrating a robust investment in the local economy. The Pune Tech Hub is now integral to Mastercard’s global operations, focusing on critical areas such as payment safety, cybersecurity, fraud detection, and digital identity.

Ed McLaughlin, President & Chief Technology Officer at Mastercard, expressed his enthusiasm for the new facility, stating, “We are thrilled to open the doors to our new Tech Hub in Pune, which will play a pivotal part in Mastercard’s global technology strategy. As one of the key nodes for our technology operations worldwide, the new Pune Tech Hub will collaborate with other hubs around the world to build the revolutionary technologies that shape our world.”

Supporting India’s Digital Ambitions

The launch of the Pune Tech Hub aligns with the Indian government’s “Viksit Bharat” vision, which aims to transform the country into a fully developed and technologically advanced economy by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of India’s independence. The Pune workforce has already been instrumental in delivering technological solutions tailored for the domestic market. Key initiatives include the financial inclusion platform Community Pass and the global pilot launch of the Payment Passkey Service, which integrates biometrics and tokenization for secure online transactions.

Gautam Aggarwal, Division President for South Asia at Mastercard, emphasized the strategic importance of India, stating, “Our newest Tech Hub in Pune marks a significant milestone, demonstrating Mastercard’s focus on growth in this market. With a strong team in India supporting global technological breakthroughs, we look forward to building on the work to achieve the Government of India’s ambitious digitization goals.”

Innovative Workplace Design

The Pune Tech Hub is not just about technological advancements; it also prioritizes employee well-being and sustainability. The facility is one of Mastercard’s most sustainably designed offices globally, aligning with India’s vision for inclusive and environmentally responsible growth. It is the first building in the world to be TRUE Platinum certified for construction and the first TRUE-certified construction in India.

Employee-Centric Features

The campus boasts a range of innovative features designed to enhance the workplace experience. These include:

• Collaborative Spaces: Technology-enabled areas that foster teamwork and innovation.
• State-of-the-Art Workstations: Equipped with the latest technology to support productivity.
• Wellness Amenities: A gymnasium, games room, quiet rooms, and an exclusive cafeteria offering healthy dining options.
• Nature-Inspired Design: Each floor reflects the ‘panch mahaboots’ or five elements of nature, with murals and original art by Indian artists celebrating the country’s rich culture and landscapes.

Conclusion

The inauguration of Mastercard’s new Tech Hub in Pune marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey and its commitment to India. By investing in local talent and technology, Mastercard is not only enhancing its global operations but also contributing to the growth of India’s digital economy. As the Tech Hub begins its operations, it is poised to address some of the most complex technological challenges facing the world today, ensuring secure, seamless, and efficient payments for millions globally.