UK-based Middle East Association (MEA), a premier business forum for promoting trade and relations with Mena, has appointed Matthew Smith as its new director general, with effect from October 15.

Smith, 52, recently retired after a successful 30-year career with HSBC as an international manager, most recently as senior executive vice president, head of Strategy and Planning HSBC North America; and chief operating officer, HSBC France, when he was responsible for the launch of HSBC Algeria.

He has extensive experience in the Mena region, where his most recent appointments were chief executive officer, HSBC Qatar and chief operating officer, HSBC Bank Middle East in Dubai.

Smith said, "I am honoured and delighted to be appointed as director general of the MEA, and am looking forward to the challenges ahead. This is a challenging but exciting time for the Mena Region, where new risks and opportunities are constantly emerging.”

“I will be working with my team to ensure that our Members receive the information and contacts that they need to negotiate the hazards and exploit the possibilities to their best advantage.”

Michael Hodges, chairman, Middle East Association said, “I am delighted that Matthew will be joining the MEA as its new director general.  At a time when global exports are increasingly important to Britain, the work of the MEA in promoting trade with the Mena region has never been more vital.  Matthew’s wealth of international business experience will be a great asset to the Association. I wish him every success in his new role.”

Smith will be replacing Dr Ranald Spiers, who served as director general from April – October 2012.  Ranald will remain on the Middle East Association Board of Directors, and will be available to provide assistance to his successor as required, a statement said. – TradeArabia News Service