Global Payments has added two new directors – Patricia Watson and Archana Deskus – to its board following activist hedge fund Elliott Investment Management’s stake-building in the payments company, according to a report by Reuters.

The appointments come as Elliott, one of the world’s largest activist investors, seeks to influence the firm’s strategic direction, with a focus on streamlining its operations to concentrate on business payment processing.

Elliott’s involvement underscores the growing role of activist hedge funds in shaping corporate governance at large financial technology and payments firms, using board representation to drive operational and strategic change.

The appointments are effective immediately, strengthening Global Payments’ board amid ongoing pressure from shareholders to sharpen its business focus and improve returns.