HSBC names Farah Farooq as new comms head for MENAT

HSBC welcomes a new comms head for the region: HSBC appointed Farah Farooq (LinkedIn) as its new head of communications for the MENA region and Turkey, according to a statement from the bank. Farooq boasts over two decades of experience in financial services. She rose through HSBC’s ranks for almost 14 years, having served in the lender’s communications department across the Middle East and Europe.

AND- Microsoft taps new EMEA head: Microsoft has appointed Samer Abu-Ltaif (LinkedIn) as president of Microsoft Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), succeeding Ralph Haupter, who will now lead Microsoft’s SMEs and channel partner organization, according to a company statement. Abu-Ltaif, formerly president of Microsoft Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, brings over 34 years of experience in technology and business development to the role. He will oversee operations in over 120 countries, focusing on AI-driven digital transformation and sustainable growth.

PLUS- Canon named Shinichi 'Sam' Yoshida (Linkedin) as president and CEO for Canon Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), according to a statement (pdf) from the Japanese multinational. The news follows former Canon EMEA CEO Yuichi Ishizuka’s retirement after seven years at the helm. Yoshida previously served as executive vice president and general manager of the marketing strategy unit and CEO of Canon Solutions America and Canon Financial Services.