Charles Bayani Named AAPI Leader of Influence 2026 | The Payment HQ

Charles Bayani has spent 14 years in payments. This year, the San Diego Business Journal recognized him for something bigger than the industry he works in.

Charles, CEO and Founder of The Payment HQ, has been named to the SDBJ's AAPI Leaders of Influence 2026.

This recognition, presented in association with the Asian Business Association San Diego, honors Asian American and Pacific Islander professionals across San Diego whose leadership, business impact, and community contributions have shaped the region. This year's class includes 34 honorees spanning healthcare, law, finance, education, technology, and nonprofit leadership.

For Charles, the recognition traces back further than the company itself.

A First-Generation Filipino Who Bet on Himself

Charles is a first-generation Filipino American who spent more than a decade building his career from the ground up in one of the most competitive corners of financial services.

He started as a personal banker at Wells Fargo and worked his way to VP in merchant services before leaving that role in 2022 to start something of his own, with no guarantee it would work.

This recognition is what that bet paying off looks like. It's not just proof that The Payment HQ works. It's proof that a first-generation Filipino founder built it. That matters on its own.

Building the Next Generation

Charles's leadership extends beyond his own client base. He also runs a mentorship program for high-performers who want to build real careers in merchant services. It's the kind of direct, hands-on guidance he didn't have when he was coming up.

That's leadership that doesn't show up on a balance sheet. It shows up in the people who come after you.

2026 CEO of the Year Finalist

This isn't Charles's only SDBJ recognition this year. He was also named a finalist for the publication's CEO of the Year award, which honors chief executives whose leadership and decision-making have driven organizational success and regional economic growth.

Two awards. One year. One recognizes what he's built. The other recognizes the community he represents while building it.

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