Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone Authority (RAK FTZ), a fast growing free trade zone in the UAE, has announced the appointment of Peter Fort as the new chief executive officer.

In addition to his mandate as CEO, Fort acts as the senior economic advisor to the Government of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK). In his new dual role he will spearhead the continued growth of RAK FTZ and channel investments into the emirate, reinforcing RAK’s growing reputation in the region.

Sheikh Ahmad Saqr Mohammed Al Qasemi, chairman of RAK FTZ, said: “Peter has played a leading role in the regional investment banking sector and has an intimate knowledge and understanding of our industry and the competitive landscape in which we operate. I welcome him onboard as we move into a new and exciting growth phase for the free zone.”

“With his extensive knowledge and experience, I am confident that he will play a pivotal role in driving RAK FTZ initiatives and help achieve our objectives; in close co-ordination with our strong board and management team,” he added.

Fort joins the free zone from a 10-year tenure with Morgan Stanley, where he was head of Mergers, Acquisitions (M&A) and Restructuring for Mena.

“I am honoured to have the confidence and support of the RAK FTZ board, and look forward to working our talented employees to further develop the reputation, products and service offerings of the free zone,” fort said.

“Our strategy is to leverage our dynamic and diversified business model as we seek new growth opportunities. We will continue to focus on innovation and execution of our portfolio of products and services as well as technology enhancements designed to benefit our clients and the emirate.”

Fort graduated with honours from Harvard University with a BA in international political economics, subsequently earning his Masters in Business Administration, with a focus on Finance, from the University of Chicago’s Graduate School of Business. – TradeArabia News Service