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Meet our team

Dedicated professionals driving our success

Erik Preuss

​​Co-Founder & CEO

With nearly two decades of experience in financial ​services, payments, and business development, Erik ​Preuss brings a deep understanding of the unique ​challenges facing today’s high-risk merchants. As ​Co-Founder and CEO of Obsidian Merchant Group, Erik leads a team dedicated to providing reliable, 


Steve Barth

​Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer

Steve brings over a decade of experience in​ ​business intelligence, data infrastructure, and ​operational strategy to the high-risk payments​ ​space. With a career rooted in analytics and big data, ​he has a track record of building scalable systems,​​ ​streamlining complex processes, and driving growth ​through data. 


​Before launching Obsidian Merchant ​Group, Steve specialized in data and performance strategy for companies in digital marketing, lead generation, and financial services—sectors with high transaction volumes and strict compliance demands. His expertise in GTM analytics, reporting automation, and predictive modeling now powers Obsidian’s mission to deliver reliable solutions to high-risk merchants. 


Steve is a Penn State graduate with a passion for building clean, efficient systems and a relentless focus on results. At Obsidian, he oversees operations, data architecture, and strategic execution—ensuring that clients get not just a payment partner, but a performance advantage.  

compliant, and custom-tailored payment solutions for ​businesses often underserved by traditional processors. 

Prior to launching Obsidian, Erik held leadership roles across the fintech, payments, and lending sectors, where he built extensive expertise in underwriting, risk management, and strategic partnerships. His career has been driven by a single focus: helping business owners access the tools they need to grow — even in the most challenging verticals.

At Obsidian Merchant Group, Erik combines this experience with a highly personal approach to client service. Whether navigating complex compliance requirements or securing approvals for high-volume businesses, he and the team pride themselves on speed, transparency, and results.

When he’s not working with merchants, Erik is an avid golfer, traveler, and lifelong learner who believes in building relationships, not just transactions.