Prospera Regional Board Member Anup Thomas is a dynamic and purpose-driven technology executive with over 20 years of experience across Fortune 20 companies, Big Four firms, and global enterprises. He specializes in strategy, design, and the delivery of innovative technology solutions with proven ROI, creating high-performing engineering and product cultures. Anup has successfully driven digital transformation across various industries, resulting in customer-centric and agile digital businesses. With a high-energy leadership style, he has led diverse global IT teams of up to 650 people, consistently delivering measurable results. Currently, he serves as the VP & CTO, Card Payments at Capital One in Atlanta, Georgia. Keep on reading to learn more about him:
What are your company’s mission and products/services?
Capital One was founded on the belief that no one should be locked out of the financial system. More than 25 years ago, Capital One revolutionized the credit card industry with data and technology. Today, our deep commitment to financial inclusion is reflected in our support for customers, associates and our community. Capital One is on a mission to change banking for good. Today, we are one of the most widely recognized brands in banking — serving more than 100 million customers across a diverse set of businesses including card, auto finance, small business, commercial and consumer banking as well as Capital One Software
What motivated you to serve on Prospera’s board as a volunteer?
Prospera’s mission of helping Hispanic entrepreneurs grow resonates with me on a personal level. I came to this country a couple of decades ago, as an immigrant, and am passionate about organizations that help other immigrants succeed while creating positive economic benefits for our local communities! I’ve seen how volunteers can help make a positive impact on our local communities – and I look forward to doing just that!
What have you enjoyed the most so far about serving on Prospera’s board?
I have enjoyed being able to help with the definition and optimization of programs and services (along with our other board members from private and public sectors) that further Prospera’s mission, and seeing the benefits of those begin to play out in our local communities. My favorite part is hearing from the local small business owners and entrepreneurs who have worked with Prospera to grow their business!
What would you most like the local community to know about Prospera?
Prospera provides a wide range of services including consulting, seminars, access to capital and business advancement services that can help local Hispanic entrepreneurs establish or grow their business. All services are available in Spanish and some in English, with virtual and in-person options, and can help you at any stage of business, from idea to growth.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
Be curious! Having a mindset of life-long learning and curiosity about how things work is a key aspect to being successful in your chosen field.
How do you achieve work/life balance?
I travel often for work and finding time to connect with my wife and daughter, whether in person or over the phone, is important for me. I am a long distance runner and enjoy running outdoors which helps me find balance and flow!
How do you stay informed about trends in your industry?
I subscribe to a diverse set of newsletters related to technology and finance, and take related courses and certifications as often as I can. I also read a variety of business publications first thing in the morning to start my day.
Where is your favorite place to have a meeting outside of the office?
I’m lucky since I get to travel to many of Capital One’s great office locations in Chicago, Richmond, and Northern Virginia. When I’m not traveling, our Ponce City Market office has a lot of options – with restaurants right at Ponce City Market as well as great access to the Beltline!
Which social media platform do you use most frequently?
LinkedIn is my favorite as a platform to look at industry trends and community perspectives while also making and maintaining connections.
What is one item still on your bucket list?
I plan on doing the Marathon de Sables in 2026 – one of the toughest multi-day marathons – and it’s in the desert!
