Robert Lime joined First Annapolis in 1997 and co-manages the Card Issuing practice area where he advises clients on various payments related matters. Robert supports his clients on a wide range of topics including general business strategy, performance benchmarking/optimization, and merger and acquisition advisory; however, Robert’s primary specialty is in the formation of large card partnerships between banks and partner organizations.
Robert has become a trusted authority in the area of card partnerships having played a significant role with many of the industry’s largest programs across various sectors. More specifically, Robert has supported brand partners (e.g., retailers, airlines, manufacturers, etc.), card issuers, and payment networks in all stages of the partnership lifecycle including new program formations, program transitions, renewals, and work-outs / renegotiations. Robert and his colleagues provide a full spectrum of services including partnership strategy development, RFP process management (sell-side or buy-side), contract negotiation, and integration support. Additionally, the team routinely conducts portfolio valuations in support of program transitions.
Robert’s partnership experience includes international assignments with clients in Mexico, Canada, South Africa, Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom and various other European countries. His specialties include private label credit, co-brand credit, and co-brand debit, and it touches on various customer segments including consumer, commercial, sub-prime, and the like.
Robert also provides support to First Annapolis clients on various merger and acquisition related matters.
Prior to joining First Annapolis, Robert worked in strategic planning, finance and business development roles for The Midland Life Insurance Company, Bank One (now JPMorgan Chase), and Eastman Kodak Company. Robert received his M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, where he graduated with Distinction. He also holds a B.S. in finance from Miami University.
