The inspiring profile of Anré Williams, who is CEO of American Express National Bank

Anré Williams is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of American Express National Bank. In his role, he oversees all aspects of the company’s U.S. banking operations. His group delivered roughly 60% of the company’s $36 billion revenue in 2020.

Also, Williams is the group president of Amex’s Enterprise services and runs the company’s technology, analytics, customer service, travel, and real estate teams. He is also a board member of Illinois Tool Works, The Wharton School, and the USA Track & Field Foundation.

He previously served as the Group President of American Express’ Global Merchant & Network Services (GMNS) which is responsible for managing relationships with millions of merchants globally that accept American Express Cards, as well as the company’s payments network, bank partnerships, international loyalty coalition programs, and relationships with its largest strategic partners, Williams’ bio by American Express says.

Williams’ career at American Express dates back to 1990 when he started as a marketing manager in the Consumer Card division. He served for several years in the Small Business Services group, where he led new product development and advertising.

Also, he served as a divisional vice president of American Express’ Corporate Payments organization and rose to become the President, Global Corporate Payments in 2007, responsible for marketing American Express’ commercial payment products to mid-size and large companies around the world.

In November 2011, he was appointed President of Global Merchant Services. He became Group President, GMNS and a member of the company’s Executive Committee in February 2018.

Besides his role at American Express National Bank and Amex’s Enterprise services, Williams also serves on a number of boards. Apart from being a board member of Illinois Tool Works Inc., he serves as Chairman of the Board of Junior Achievement of New York, Inc.

Williams is also the founder of Executive Black Engagement Network (BEN) aimed at creating a more inclusive society in corporate America. BEN comprises 55 members of American Express’ most senior Black executives globally.

Forbes recently named him on its Inaugural CEO Next List, which highlighted 50 business leaders and executives who stand on the cusp of running America’s most influential and respected companies. Also, Williams was in Savoy Magazine’s 2018 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America list.

Williams attended Stanford University where he obtained his BA. He proceeded to Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania to obtain his MBA in Marketing.