Management

D. Shakira Stewart – Shakira's journey as an entrepreneur began in 1978 as the Founder of MSME, Inc., a NYC-based computer programming and consulting firm.  During the company's ten (10) year tenure, clients included IT&T, Chase Bank, Chemical Bank, Citicorp, Johnson & Higgins, Aeronautic Forwarders, the Federal Reserve and others.

Today, Shakira is the Managing Partner and driving force behind Optimum Payment Solutions, Inc. (OPS), a 21 year financial services company.  With over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience, her management and leadership skills have proven invaluable to the company's overall success.  Founded in 1990 (formerly as Automated BanCard), OPS is a pioneer in the credit/debit card acceptance industry. Since its inception OPS has provided specialized financial products and services to thousands of businesses nationwide.

With the growth of the Internet and the rapid evolution of global commerce, Shakira set her sights on the international marketplace.  By expanding Optimum’s portfolio to include a global e-payment gateway, she bridged the gap to world markets; affording OPS clients the ability to transact sales, make payments and transfer funds internationally…easier, safer, faster and less costly than by traditional means.

A self-proclaimed "Master of Multi-tasking", Shakira focuses on new business development, while simultaneously acquiring new cutting-edge innovations that enhance value for existing business partners, clients and their customers.

In recognition of her dedication and commitment to excellence, Shakira was recognized by Who's Who for "Excellence in Business Management" and was selected as the 2011-2012 Who's Who "Executive Professional of the Year".  She was also the 2007 recipient of the Norfolk/TD Bank "Business Woman of the Year Award" and has received several other rewards for Entrepreneurial Achievement throughout her career. Shakira attributes her success to the contributions she makes to the success of her clients and her steadfast commitment to excellence. Her passions are family and traveling. Charitable Organizations:  In Loving Memory - AIDS Service Center of New York (ASCNYC).

John D. McAllister, Chief Operating Officer: McAllister joined the OPS team in May 2006 bringing with him 28 years of entrepreneurial experience and a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the areas of business development, management, strategic planning and team leadership. And, John is no stranger to developing and negotiating complex high level deals...an asset proving immeasurable to Optimum's future. In his role as COO, John oversees the company's day-to-day operations; insuring that all facets of the business run smoothly and competently.

John attended the College of Insurance at St. Johns University in NYC where he achieved a Bachelor of Arts and Master’s degree in the field of insurance.  In 1989 he founded McAllister & Associates (NYC) an insurance brokerage and consulting firm. As President/CEO, John spearheaded operations, developed and implemented strategic marketing campaigns and provided insurance brokerage and consulting services to both private and public-sector clients.  During the company’s ten (10) year tenure, John formed many alliances and strategic partnership, often co-venturing with some of the insurance industry’s most prominent leaders. Major accounts included:

•  Marsh & McLennan:  NYC School Construction Authority, NYC HR Administration
•  Johnson & Higgins:  Foster-Wheeler, L.I College & Sloan Kettering Hospitals, NYC Mission Society
•  Interfaith Medical Center ((NYC)
•  The New York Livery Association and more.

Accomplished on many fronts, John boasts his most significant achievement as the formation of the Consortium of Minority Brokers, which earned his company a contract with the Democratic National Committee to provide all the insurance coverages required for the 1992 Presidential convention.