Alix Appeleyil
Alix Appeleyil is a Senior Technical Product Manager at the PCI Security Standards Council, where she specializes in advancing mobile and device payment security. With over 12 years of experience in the payments industry, Alix has built a reputation as a trusted business partner, helping organizations navigate complex risk, compliance, and emerging technology challenges. Originally from India, she relocated to the United States 13 years ago and has since made a significant impact in the global payments security landscape.
Throughout her career, Alix has focused on ensuring secure and compliant payment solutions while supporting innovation in emerging payment technologies. She has held critical roles at Discover Financial Services, where she managed emerging payments security, fraud, privacy risk, and compliance initiatives, and has consistently demonstrated expertise in product compliance, cybersecurity risk, and enterprise risk management. Her ability to balance technical proficiency with strategic collaboration has positioned her as a key contributor to the success of both nonprofit and corporate security organizations.
Outside of her professional work, Alix is passionate about long-distance running and gardening, activities that reflect her values of perseverance, wellness, and personal growth. She thrives on collaboration, continuous learning, and leveraging her experience to support her teams and partners in creating secure and innovative payment solutions. Alix’s dedication to both her profession and personal development exemplifies a holistic approach to leadership in the fast-paced payments industry.
• (ISC)² CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
• Lead Auditor in Information Security Management Systems ISO 27001
• Karnatak University - Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Business Administration and Management, General
• Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning - Master of Business Administration - MBA, International Marketing
• Bangalore University - Master of Computer Applications (M.C.A.), Computer Software Engineering
• Southern Asia Bible College - Master of Divinity - MDiv, Theology/Theological Studies
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to building strong business partnerships throughout the payments industry and leveraging over 12 years of experience. My journey has been shaped by continuous learning and collaborating with teams that drive innovation and security in the rapidly evolving payments landscape.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is managing risk and compliance for emerging payment technologies. As the payments industry evolves globally, staying ahead of security threats while enabling seamless digital transactions is both demanding and exciting.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I place a high value on work-life balance, wellness, and personal growth. Outside of work, I enjoy long-distance running and gardening, which help me maintain perspective, build perseverance, and recharge for the challenges of my professional life.