Internet Group, the issuer of the USDC dollar-backed stablecoin, has appointed former Yellow Card executive Gillian Darko as Vice President and Head of Africa, strengthening its leadership as it expands its digital payments business across the continent.
The appointment places Darko in charge of Circle’s African operations at a time when stablecoins are attracting growing attention as tools for international payments, business transactions and access to dollar-denominated digital assets.
Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that Darko joins Circle after serving as Group Vice President of Strategy at Yellow Card, where she played a role in the company’s commercial growth and strategic partnerships.
Her experience at the African cryptocurrency exchange spans several leadership positions. She joined Yellow Card in 2024 as Chief of Staff and Director of Strategy before moving into the Group Vice President of Strategy role.
During her tenure, Darko worked on revenue strategy, business expansion and relationships with banks, telecommunications operators and international financial institutions.
Her move to Circle brings experience from a company operating within Africa’s digital asset ecosystem to one of the leading global issuers of dollar-backed stablecoins.
USDC is a digital currency designed to maintain a value equivalent to one US dollar. Unlike cryptocurrencies whose prices fluctuate significantly, stablecoins are structured to maintain a relatively stable value through backing by reserve assets.
They are increasingly being explored for cross-border payments and international business transactions, particularly in markets where access to foreign currencies can be challenging.
For African businesses, the technology offers a potential alternative for moving funds across borders, although its use remains subject to regulatory requirements in individual countries.
Circle’s appointment of an Africa-focused executive also comes amid increasing scrutiny of stablecoin providers by regulators across the continent.
The company’s expansion will therefore involve both growing access to its digital dollar and navigating the different regulatory environments governing digital financial services in African markets.
Darko’s appointment highlights the growing importance of regional leadership as international financial technology companies seek to deepen their presence in Africa’s evolving payments market.
