First Data CEO says good-bye

ATLANTA — First Data Corporation, a global leader in electronic commerce and payment processing, has announced that CEO Jon Judge plans to retire from the company for health reasons.



First Data offers e-commerce solutions to merchants, financial institutions and their customers. First Data leverages its product portfolio and expertise to drive customer revenue and profitability, and facilitates payment by debit or credit card, gift card, check or mobile phone, online or at the checkout counter.



“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.”



First Data’s board will search for a new CEO, and Judge will remain in his position until a transition is made.



“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.”