MasterCard 2009 Annual Report Download - page 8

6 MasterCard Annual Report 2009
The MasterCard Foundation
The MasterCard Foundation is an independent, private charitable foundation headquartered in Toronto,
Canada. It was established at the time of our initial public offering in May 2006, through the generosity
of our customer fi nancial institutions. Its mission is to advance effective and innovative programs in
microfi nance and youth education worldwide — and its vision is to make the economy work for everyone.
The Foundation believes that every person has the potential to transform their lives. The Foundation
collaborates with a range of nonprofi t and nongovernmental partners, such as BRAC, the Equity Group
Foundation, Opportunity International, and Save the Children, among others, to advance self-sustaining
and scalable solutions. By increasing access to microfi nance and youth education programs in developing
countries, the Foundation is helping people of all ages living in poverty realize their potential and achieve
broader economic participation. To learn more, visit www.themastercardfoundation.org.
A Global Workforce That Makes Things Happen
All other factors aside, we know that the best guarantee of success is a corporate culture that encourages leadership, teamwork,
and accountability. To that end, we made adjustments to enhance our cross-functional mobility and are shifting resources to
local markets to better serve our customers.
In 2009 and early 2010, MasterCard was recognized far and wide as a top company and workplace. Fortune magazine rated
us one of America’s Most Admired Companies of 2009 and 2010; Barron’s ranked us 9th in the most recent Barron’s 500;
and BusinessWeek 50 ranked us 10th in 2009. In addition, Working Mother recognized MasterCard as one of the 100 Best
Companies; Leadership Excellence magazine ranked our leadership development program among the best; Training magazine
included us on its ”Training Top 125” list; and, DiversityInc placed us on its 25 Noteworthy Companies list.
These are just a few examples of the accolades we’ve received. They refl ect our fi rm commitment to building shareholder value,
leadership development, and diversity and inclusion, all of which are essential to our growth and prosperity as a global enterprise.
We are extremely fortunate to be guided by a Board of Directors that is rich in experience and international representation.
It is with great sadness, however, that we acknowledge the passing of Board member Bernard “Bernie” S. Y. Fung earlier this
year. Bernie, who served on our Board since June 2006, was an insightful and valued director, serving on our Human Resources
and Compensation Committee. His integrity, leadership, and statesmanship contributed to MasterCard’s success throughout
the years. He is sorely missed as both a colleague and friend.
Ready for Growth
Innovation, insights, technology, brands, and — above all — people. As a company at the heart of commerce we’re putting
them all together. We’re driving new payment solutions; making life easier and more rewarding for consumers; capturing an
increasing share of transactions; building revenues for our customers and merchants; driving shareholder value; and, advancing
commerce for everyone, everywhere.
As we pass the reins of leadership and embrace this time of change and opportunity, MasterCard remains poised to capture
the many prospects that continue to emerge in one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic industries.
Sincerely,
Ajay Banga Robert Selander
President and Chief Executive Offi cer Executive Vice Chairman