Chief Executive Officer

Position Overview Gradient Inc., an early-stage payments technology company focused initially on serving credit unions, is seeking a hands-on, entrepreneurial leader to serve as its Chief Executive Officer. Gradient is building from an uncommon startup advantage: access to established, proven technology and strategic industry relationships. The CEO will turn that foundation into a scalable business by winning customers, shaping the product, building the organization, and creating long-term enterprise value. This is a founding-style opportunity for a commercial builder who is ready to personally sell, negotiate, onboard customers, recruit talent, and make product decisions. The CEO will move quickly between strategy and execution, working directly with programmers, payment partners, financial institutions, vendors, and the board while building the team and operating model needed to scale. Responsibilities Set and execute Gradient's vision, strategy, business model, and growth priorities. Secure early design partners and credit union customers to validate product-market fit and establish repeatable sales motions. Represent the company at the highest levels, fostering executive relationships across the credit union, payments, technology, and investment communities. Guide product strategy by translating market and customer needs into clear development and investment priorities. Drive strategic business development initiatives through the negotiation and execution of complex commercial agreements. Build the initial pricing model, product packaging, and unit economics from the ground up while establishing baseline financial discipline. Build the leadership team, operating model, culture, and governance practices needed to scale the organization. Partner with the board on strategy, performance, organizational development, and long-term value creation. Qualifications Track record of senior leadership, whether as a C-suite executive, founder, or general manager, within payments, fintech, or financial services technology. Experience selling into credit unions, community banks, or their core/processing ecosystem strongly preferred. Demonstrated success commercializing technology, growing revenue, developing markets, or building a business. Strong understanding of payment systems, financial institution needs, and the broader financial services ecosystem. Proven ability to build and maintain executive-level relationships with customers, strategic partners, investors, and boards. Experience leading product, technology, sales, partnership, and operational priorities across an organization. Strong financial judgment, commercial negotiation skills, and understanding of business economics. Ability to attract talent, build high-performing teams, and establish an accountable, growth-oriented culture. Experience scaling an early-stage business, combining entrepreneurial leadership with a hands-on approach. Ability to travel up to 50% as required. Gradient Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected by applicable law.