Card Program Manager/Administrator Role

Who manages your organization’s Commercial Card/P-Card program? Was the role assigned randomly? John, we see you have some extra time on your hands, so we’re assigning you P-Card program management… Unfortunately, this approach is all too common or, worse, an organization never explicitly assigns the program manager/administrator (PM/PA) role to anyone. Yet, for long-term program success, a strong PM/PA is critical.

Depending on the size and complexity of your program, you might need less than one full-time equivalent (FTE), one dedicated FTE, or more than one. Some organizations divide the tasks between two or more people; for example, assigning strategic tasks to a PM and operational tasks to a PA. Even if they do not spend 100% of their time on the program, it should be a priority—one that is supported by management.

Card program management is a bona fide profession, so an appropriate job description—whether on its own or wrapped into another job—is warranted. Regardless of the department in which a PM/PA resides (two common options are procurement or accounts payable), look for someone who is able to:

  • garner program buy-in

  • develop clear policies and procedures

  • effectively train program participants

  • resolve transaction declines and related card usage issues

  • articulate and establish P-Card best practices

  • identify and remedy gaps in controls

  • quantify and communicate relevant metrics

  • implement technology solutions

  • suggest and pursue growth opportunities

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