Former CEO of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company Talal Al Zain has been appointed as the regional head of PineBridge Investments, global multi-asset class investment manager based in New York.

PineBridge Investments manages $67.3 billion in assets, as of 31 December 2011, for institutional and individual clients across an extensive platform of listed equity, fixed income, private equity and hedge fund strategies.

His appointment marks the launch of PineBridge’s full service operations in Mena region, which will see the establishment of new regional headquarters, said a company statement.

In his new role as PineBridge Investments CEO (Mena), Al Zain will spearhead the further expansion of PineBridge’s regional presence, which builds upon the firm’s existing private equity capabilities in Istanbul (Turkey) and distribution office in Dubai.

In addition to heading the regional operations, the industry veteran will also serve on PineBridge’s executive committee.

Al Zain will also be the co-head of Alternative Investments, assuming joint management responsibility for the firm’s private equity, hedge fund and other alternative investment businesses globally with Hans Danielsson, PineBridge’s head of Investments.

Al Zain was earlier CEO of Bahrain Mumtalakat, the sovereign wealth fund and investment arm of Bahrain

Commenting on the appointment, Mervyn Davies, Lord Davies of Abersoch, non-executive chairman of PineBridge’s board of directors, said, “We are honoured that an investment professional of Talal’s calibre is joining PineBridge to head the Mena operations.'

'This announcement represents yet another step forward for PineBridge in the execution of the Board’s strategic vision, positioning the firm to capitalize on unique investment management opportunities in high growth markets,' he added.

On his appointment,  David Jiang, the PineBridge CEO said, 'Talal’s background and expertise speak to PineBridge’s strengths, namely, a solid investment track record grounded on deep knowledge, aligned with global capability and best practice.'

'Mena has great growth potential, and Talal’s leadership will enhance PineBridge’s capabilities there, creating exciting opportunities for all of our clients,' he added.

On his new role, Al Zain said, “I am delighted to join PineBridge and lead the Mena operations. PineBridge is well-established, with global capabilities in key growth markets and innovative investment solutions.'

'I look forward to expanding its presence in the region, and strengthening the firm’s product offering, especially private equity deal flow, to benefit its global client base,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service