What is a card programme manager? Who runs a branded card behind the scenes
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
A card programme manager is the company that designs, launches and runs a card programme on behalf of a brand. The brand's name goes on the card, while licensed partners issue it and move the money behind the scenes.
Who does what in a card programme
- The brand: owns the customers and the look of the card.
- The programme manager: builds and runs the programme day to day.
- The issuer (or BIN sponsor): the licensed firm that issues the card.
- The card scheme, such as Visa: runs the network the card is used on.
- The processor: handles each card payment as it happens.
What a programme manager handles
Card design and ordering, customer sign-up checks, the app or dashboard where cards are managed, spending controls, and support when cards are lost or payments are disputed.
What it costs
Costs usually include setup, a charge per card issued, and ongoing fees. Physical cards cost more than virtual ones because they have to be printed and posted.
Where SendPay fits
SendPay platforms include branded Visa cards under your own name, powered by licensed partners. SendPay's wholesale cost to a platform owner is £0.20 per virtual card and £4 per physical card before shipping, and SendPay tells you in writing which licences apply to your platform before you pay.
Build it
Create your own financial platform.
Pick a template, name it, brand it, preview every page before you pay. Your brand, your users, your fees.
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What would my own card programme earn?
Work out card costs, card income and first-year profit from your own numbers.
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This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.