First Data CEO to Retire

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Data Corporation, a global leader in electronic commerce and payment processing, today announced that CEO Jon Judge plans to retire from the company for health reasons. Mr. Judge informed the Board of Directors of his decision this week and has received its full support.

“While my plans didn’t anticipate such an early retirement, those plans needed to be changed for the benefit of my health”

First Data’s Board of Directors will conduct a search for a new CEO; Mr. Judge will remain in his position until a transition is effected.

“While my plans didn’t anticipate such an early retirement, those plans needed to be changed for the benefit of my health,” said Judge. “The directors have been very understanding and very gracious in their accommodation.”

“We appreciate all the results Jon has accomplished at First Data. He has provided great leadership and helped us take action to make First Data ‘a great place to work,’” said Board Chairman Joe Forehand. “Jon has helped the company drive a customer-first focus. Over the last eight quarters under Jon’s leadership First Data’s EBITDA has grown significantly. We’ve made great progress in bringing new, innovative products to market and we are a leader in the ongoing changes impacting the payments industry. We will miss Jon’s leadership and wish him well in his recovery.”

Around the world, every second of every day, First Data makes payment transactions secure, fast and easy for merchants, financial institutions and their customers. First Data leverages its vast product portfolio and expertise to drive customer revenue and profitability. Whether the choice of payment is by debit or credit card, gift card, check or mobile phone, online or at the checkout counter, First Data takes every opportunity to go beyond the transaction.