KUALA LUMPUR: HSBC Bank Malaysia Bhd has appointed Christina Cheah as head of global banking, Malaysia effective 1
March 2021.
Christina was head of large local corporates for global banking in Malaysia until the fourth quarter of 2020, when she was appointed acting head of global banking.
Her appointment reflects HSBC's desire to promote local talent as well as the bank's commitment in nurturing and growing more women leaders in Malaysia.
HSBC Malaysia chief executive officer Stuart Milne said the bank is very focused on building and developing local talent, and so delighted to have Christina as the new head of global banking, Malaysia.
"With her extensive experience and deep understanding of the Malaysian market, we are confident that she will lead the growth of our global banking franchise here.
"Malaysia is a strategically important market for HSBC and we will continue to invest for growth," he said in a statement.
Christina, who joined HSBC in 2013 and has close to 20 years of experience in financial services, is a key member of HSBC's leadership team in Malaysia and has led many of the bank's long-established client relationships.
She has a passion for HSBC's Sustainability agenda, working with colleagues and clients towards a net zero carbon emissions future.
She has actively led a number of diversity and inclusion and talent development programmes, including mentorship initiatives for HSBC's Malaysian talent pool and coaching for graduates in HSBC global banking, Asia Pacific.
Christina believes that the acquisition of knowledge is a life-long pursuit and she is personally committed to sharing her knowledge with others.
"With Christina's appointment, more than 40 per cent of our Malaysia executive committee are women.
"We believe that a diverse top leadership team is essential to delivering for our customers. It is also a happy coincidence that Christina's appointment is taking place just before International Women's Day on 8 March 2021," Stuart said.
A graduate of University of London, Christina enjoys reading and cycling. Married with two children, she has a passion for travelling and experiencing different cultures with her family.