British Arab Commercial Bank (BACB), the UK bank dedicated to specialist markets, has appointed David Smithson as Associate Director for Anglophone Africa.

Over the course of his career, Smithson has developed a critical understanding of entities’ needs and sensitivities in their operations across Africa. Smithson joins from Crown Agents Bank (CAB) where he served as Regional Banker for East and Southern Africa.

Prior to that, he worked in front-office Treasury sales roles, working closely with central and commercial banks across the African continent throughout his tenure.

Commenting on his appointment, Smithson said: “Understandably, in the near-term clients will be looking for much-needed support in navigating the extremely challenging market conditions. In this respect, BACB – as an agile, specialist financier – is very well-positioned to offer sophisticated solutions in the region.”

“We will play an integral role,” he continues, “in supporting clients not only through the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak, but when trade financing will become an increasingly crucial aspect of the global recovery. For this reason, I am looking forward to being part of the solution and to offering a fresh perspective to the BACB team.”

Susie Aliker, CEO of BACB, said: “We are delighted to welcome David to BACB. His extensive, region- specific experience makes him an ideal fit for the role, and his Treasury experience reinforces our expertise and offering. We continue to develop our services for clients and explore new channels for growth in Africa.”

Based in London and regulated in the UK, BACB prides itself on a proven track record of excellence and deep product and region expertise, making it the partner of choice in financing trade flows to and from Africa and the Middle East.