“This project was heavy—Kate helped us stay light without losing focus.”
Biz/Org
A Big Bank
Year
2018 - 2019
Fintech
Infrastructure
Product Overview
Apple wanted to offer interest-free installment payments for big-ticket device purchases through an exciting new credit card. I joined as an embedded product manager and coach, supporting the backend team through build, test, and launch—helping a Big Bank and Pivotal engineers deliver secure, scalable services behind a flagship financial feature.
Delivered backend APIs to support monthly credit card installments
Defined and validated service behaviors using Postman and user flow walkthroughs
Coached engineering teams on user-centered delivery and fast feedback loops
Strengthened collaboration between Banks, Processors, and Digital teams
Brought levity and cohesion to a secretive, high-stakes project (including a custom launch trivia game!)
Product Goals
How might we build installment services that meet the rigor of financial compliance—and still feel as seamless as Apple?
This wasn’t just a backend build—it was a cross-institutional dance between UX expectations, legal obligations, and service scalability. My goal was to make sure the backend team could ship confidently in this high-pressure environment, with clarity, alignment, and space for human collaboration.
Prioritized lean service architecture with adaptability for future devices and terms
Advocated for clear service outcomes over technical output
Supported rapid testing cycles that didn’t compromise on compliance
Embedded product coaching and process support into daily team rituals
Challenges
Coordinating with multiple external stakeholders (Major retailer, Big Bank, processing companies) under strict NDAs
Delivering within high-stakes security and compliance requirements
Navigating shifting priorities across backend services, device timelines, and UX dependencies
Maintaining team morale on a tight, secretive, and highly scrutinized initiative
Solutions
Developed clear validation and alignment strategies using API specs and testing protocols
Led backend delivery planning using service maps and outcome-first user stories
Provided embedded coaching and async rituals to support team velocity
Introduced a balance of structure and play to keep energy high under pressure
Outcome & Impact
Contributed to a flagship feature that increased device sales and exciting new credit card adoption
Helped Big Bank adopt faster, more user-focused delivery rhythms
Created a collaborative and resilient team culture during a confidential, high-pressure engagement
