Potts brings 35 years of experience driving fintech innovation to AFC's growing membership initiatives

Washington, D.C. (January 15, 2026) – The American Fintech Council (AFC), the largest industry association representing both responsible fintech companies and innovative banks, announced the hiring of Charles E. Potts as Executive Vice President and Head of Growth and Engagement. A 35-year veteran of the banking and fintech sector, Potts will lead efforts to grow AFC’s membership of responsible innovators and strengthen engagement with current members through strategic initiatives that connect and support organizations across the financial services ecosystem.

“Charles has been a trusted colleague, advisor and most importantly a friend and it is truly an honor to have him with us at AFC. He has a wealth of experience in fintech and banking innovation, and his leadership will be invaluable as AFC continues to grow,” said Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American Fintech Council. “He will play a key role in supporting connections across the industry, and his expertise will be a valuable resource for our members as they navigate the changing fintech landscape. We are thrilled to have him on board and confident he will help our members advance the future of responsible innovation.”

Potts brings extensive experience in financial technology to this new role. He most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), where he led innovation strategy, technology partnerships, and fintech engagement to support community banks nationwide. Over his career, he has co-founded and led multiple fintech startups across digital banking, payments, and financial management, including leadership roles at NetClarity and First Performance Global. He also led the fintech practice at the Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC), where he mentored startups through the Georgia Tech-based incubator.

“I’m excited to join AFC at a moment when the fintech industry is evolving rapidly and redefining how financial services are delivered,” said Charles E. Potts, Executive Vice President and Head of Growth and Engagement at the American Fintech Council. “AFC brings together some of the most innovative, forward-thinking companies in fintech, and I look forward to working closely with members to support their shared priorities.”

A standards-based organization, the American Fintech Council (AFC) is the largest and most diverse trade association representing financial technology (fintech) companies and innovative banks. On behalf of over 150 member companies and partners, AFC promotes a transparent, inclusive, and customer-centric financial system by supporting responsible innovation in financial services and encouraging sound public policy. AFC members foster competition in consumer finance and pioneer products to better serve underserved consumer segments and geographies.

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