Network International Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Network International has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, operations, and market expansion.

Driven by innovation, Network International provides technology-enabled payment solutions to merchants and financial institutions across the Middle East, shaping the future of digital transactions.

Leadership Roles at Network International

  • Chief Executive Officer - Shashi Desai
  • Chief Financial Officer - Mohammad Zeinat
  • Group Chief Financial Officer - Ashish Jain
  • To The Operations Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Payments Operations Client Services 21 Yrs Banking & Cards - Anna Thomas
  • President & Founder - Stephen Afflu
  • President - Jeff Welch
  • Chief Information Officer - Muneer Muhtaseb
  • Chief Technology Officer & Services Merchant - Manav Mehra
  • Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Officer, Francophone Region - Aya Hassani
  • Group Chief Information Officer, Human Resources Digital Transformation - Mo Zia
  • Shashi Desai - Chief Executive Officer

    Shashi Desai, the Chief Executive Officer at Network International, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Desai guides Network International's mission to deliver technology-enabled payment solutions to merchants and financial institutions throughout the Middle East. This leadership role involves driving market growth and ensuring the company's competitive positioning within the finance and credit card sectors. Desai's focus centers on expanding service offerings and enhancing client relationships. The Chief Executive Officer oversees all departments, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and fostering a culture of innovation. By charting the course for future development, Shashi Desai ensures Network International remains at the forefront of payment technology, supporting the digital transformation of businesses across the region.

    Mohammad Zeinat - Chief Financial Officer

    Mohammad Zeinat, the Chief Financial Officer at Network International, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Zeinat oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal discipline across the organization. This role is critical in supporting Network International's expansion and operational efficiency in providing technology-enabled payment solutions. The Chief Financial Officer analyzes market trends and financial performance to identify opportunities for revenue enhancement and cost optimization. Zeinat collaborates with other executives to align financial strategies with the company's broader business objectives. By maintaining strong financial controls and driving profitable growth, Mohammad Zeinat ensures the long-term stability and success of Network International's operations in the Middle East.
    Mohammad Zeinat

    Ashish Jain - Group Chief Financial Officer

    Ashish Jain, the Group Chief Financial Officer at Network International, oversees the comprehensive financial strategy and performance across the group's entities. Jain manages financial planning, reporting, and capital allocation, ensuring fiscal integrity and driving sustainable growth. This executive function is crucial for supporting Network International's extensive network of merchants and financial institutions. The Group Chief Financial Officer analyzes financial data to inform strategic decision-making and optimize resource utilization. Jain works closely with divisional leaders to achieve financial targets and enhance profitability. By providing strategic financial guidance, Ashish Jain strengthens Network International's market position and operational resilience in the dynamic Middle Eastern payment sector.

    Anna Thomas - To The Operations Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Payments Operations Client Services 21 Yrs Banking & Cards

    Anna Thomas, the To The Operations Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Payments Operations Client Services 21 Yrs Banking & Cards at Network International, manages critical payment operations and client service functions. Thomas oversees the day-to-day execution of payment processing, ensuring seamless service delivery to financial institutions and merchants. This extensive experience in banking and cards underpins robust operational management. The Chief Operating Officer, Payments Operations Client Services drives efficiency and quality across all operational touchpoints. Thomas focuses on optimizing workflows, enhancing service reliability, and ensuring client satisfaction. By leading these vital functions, Anna Thomas ensures Network International maintains its reputation for operational excellence in the Middle East's financial technology sector.

    Stephen Afflu - President & Founder

    Stephen Afflu, the President & Founder at Network International, established the company with a vision for technology-enabled payment solutions. Afflu provides foundational leadership and strategic direction, guiding Network International's growth and market presence. This role involves setting the company's long-term objectives and fostering its core values. The President & Founder oversees key strategic initiatives and maintains relationships with stakeholders. Afflu's entrepreneurial spirit drives the company's commitment to innovation and client success in the Middle East. By drawing on extensive industry knowledge, Stephen Afflu continues to shape Network International's trajectory as a leader in payment technology.

    Jeff Welch - President

    Jeff Welch, the President at Network International, directs significant operational and strategic initiatives across the organization. Welch oversees key business functions, ensuring alignment with Network International's mission to provide advanced payment solutions to merchants and financial institutions. This leadership position is critical for driving market penetration and operational excellence. The President focuses on enhancing service delivery and expanding the company's reach within the Middle East. Welch collaborates with executive teams to implement growth strategies and optimize business processes. By leading critical operations, Jeff Welch contributes to Network International's sustained success and market leadership in the financial technology sector.

    Muneer Muhtaseb - Chief Information Officer

    Muneer Muhtaseb, the Chief Information Officer at Network International, architects the company's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Muhtaseb leads the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions that power Network International's payment services for merchants and financial institutions. This position is vital for maintaining the security, scalability, and reliability of the company's platforms. The Chief Information Officer oversees IT operations, cybersecurity, and data management, ensuring compliance with industry standards. Muhtaseb drives digital transformation initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Muneer Muhtaseb supports Network International's mission to lead in the Middle East's evolving payment landscape.
    Muneer Muhtaseb

    Manav Mehra - Chief Technology Officer & Services Merchant

    Manav Mehra, the Chief Technology Officer & Services Merchant at Network International, spearheads technological innovation and service delivery for merchant clients. Mehra directs the development and enhancement of payment solutions, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of businesses in the Middle East. This dual role emphasizes driving technological advancements while optimizing merchant services. The Chief Technology Officer & Services Merchant oversees the technology roadmap, focusing on scalability, security, and user experience. Mehra collaborates with product development and operations teams to integrate new technologies and improve service offerings. By championing technological excellence, Manav Mehra ensures Network International provides superior payment processing capabilities to its merchant partners.

    Aya Hassani - Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Officer, Francophone Region

    Aya Hassani, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Officer, Francophone Region at Network International, leads technology strategy and implementation across specific geographic markets. Hassani directs IT operations and digital initiatives, ensuring robust and secure technology solutions for clients in the Francophone regions. This role is pivotal in adapting Network International's payment technologies to diverse market needs. The Chief Information Officer, Francophone Region oversees infrastructure, cybersecurity, and application development, driving technological adoption. Hassani collaborates with regional teams to align IT strategies with local business objectives. By ensuring technological excellence, Aya Hassani supports Network International's expansion and service delivery in key international markets.

    Mo Zia - Group Chief Information Officer, Human Resources Digital Transformation

    Mo Zia, the Group Chief Information Officer, Human Resources Digital Transformation at Network International, drives the integration of technology within human resources and spearheads digital transformation efforts. Zia oversees the development and deployment of IT systems that enhance HR functions and support broader organizational change. This strategic role focuses on leveraging technology to improve employee experience and operational efficiency. The Group Chief Information Officer, Human Resources Digital Transformation guides the company's digital evolution, ensuring technology aligns with business goals. Zia collaborates with leadership across departments to implement transformative digital solutions. By championing digital innovation, Mo Zia strengthens Network International's capacity for growth and adaptation in the technology-driven payment industry.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Credit Card Processing

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Network International Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Network International?
    Network International is led by Shashi Desai (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mohammad Zeinat (Chief Financial Officer) and Ashish Jain (Group Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Network International’s executive team?
    The executive team of Network International includes leaders such as Shashi Desai (Chief Executive Officer), Mohammad Zeinat (Chief Financial Officer), Ashish Jain (Group Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Network International have?
    Network International has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Network International’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Network International includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Group Chief Financial Officer, To The Operations Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Payments Operations Client Services 21 Yrs Banking & Cards, President & Founder.