The PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) is pleased to welcome its newest team member, Chelsea Lopez, Client Engagement Operations Director. As Client Engagement Operations Director, Chelsea will enhance our operating model by ensuring stakeholder engagement is not only consistent but deeply integrated into the development, implementation, and evolution of our standards and programs. By identifying and streamlining engagement processes, this position will contribute to greater operational efficiency and effectiveness across the Council.

In this Q&A, we will learn more about Chelsea and all that she brings to the Council. 

Client Engagement Operations Director is a new position at the Council. What do you envision this role to be? 

Chelsea Lopez: The Client Engagement Operations Director is a pivotal new role at the Council, designed to elevate how we collaborate with our global stakeholder community and drive adoption of PCI SSC products. I envision this position as the strategic bridge between our internal initiatives and the diverse ecosystem of payment brands, financial institutions, merchants, service providers, vendors, and regulators.

Ultimately, this position is about amplifying the voice of our stakeholders, strengthening our operational backbone, and ensuring the Council remains agile, informed, and impactful in its mission to secure payment data worldwide.

Could you tell us about your previous role and the company you worked for?

Chelsea Lopez: Prior to joining PCI SSC, I was a Risk Director at Fidelity National Information Services (FIS) responsible for PCI Compliance. FIS has one of the largest PCI portfolios in the industry. During my tenure at FIS, I led the implementation of multiple versions of PCI DSS (beginning with v2.0 to v3.0 through v4.0) and the transition from PA-DSS to SSF.

Can you describe your career path in the payment security industry and how it led you to PCI SSC? 

Chelsea Lopez: My career began in the gaming (casino) industry as an Internal Auditor. Internal Audit has provided me with a solid foundation of internal controls and an interest in IT security. Through my work as an IT Auditor, I was hired by FIS as a Risk Liaison between 3rd party assessors and internal subject matter experts. At the time, PCI DSS was in transition from v2.0 to v3.0 and provided an opportunity to deep dive into the PCI DSS requirements and work with development, security, technology, and business operations teams to implement the updated controls into operations. Once PCI DSS v3.0 was fully implemented, I had built my reputation as a PCI Compliance expert and had credibility with colleagues at all levels of FIS in my ability to simplify complex concepts into actionable work.

You bring a wealth of industry relationships and knowledge to the Council. What does that mean for you in terms of helping PCI SSC succeed in its mission to secure payment data?

Chelsea Lopez: Leveraging my robust professional network, I will ensure PCI SSC remains informed of the latest industry security trends, emerging threats, regulatory developments, and technological advancements. I also want to strengthen strategic partnerships with other cybersecurity associations so that we can jointly champion strategic initiatives. 

What engagement opportunities are you most looking forward to in this new role? 

Chelsea Lopez: I am most excited for the opportunity to engage with our Participating Organizations and Individual Participants who have not taken full advantage of their membership and evangelizing payment security around the globe.

What kinds of things are you passionate about? What would you like others to know about you? 

Chelsea Lopez: I’m passionate about empowering people through financial confidence and digital security.

On one side, I love helping individuals take control of their personal finances—budgeting, saving, investing, and planning for the future. I believe financial literacy is a gateway to freedom, and I’m committed to making it practical and accessible.

On the other side, I care deeply about payments security. In a world of constant digital transactions, protecting sensitive data isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s a matter of trust. I’m energized by building secure systems that give people and businesses peace of mind.

At the heart of both passions is a desire to help others feel confident, protected, and in control. Whether I’m educating someone about money or securing the systems behind the scenes, I’m driven by impact and integrity. My Clifton Strengths—Activator, Woo, and Achiever—reflect how I lead: I get things moving, energize teams, and follow through with purpose. I bring enthusiasm, empathy, and execution to everything I do.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, such as where you are based, your educational background, your family life, and how you spend your time outside of work?

Chelsea Lopez: I’m based in the beautiful Tampa Bay area of Florida, where I live with my husband Bundy and our two amazing kids, Tristen and Maya. Originally from Northern Nevada, I’m a proud alum of the University of Nevada, Reno—Go Pack!

Outside of work, I love spending time in the kitchen and hosting gatherings with friends. Whether it’s trying out a new recipe or creating space for good conversation, I find joy in bringing people together. Family, food, and connection are at the heart of how I recharge and stay inspired.

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