HLB Appoints Simon Newman As Chief Of Integrated Channels

Hong Leong Bank today announced the appointment of Mr. Simon Newman as Chief Branch Banking and Integrated Channel Development Officer with effect from 2 July 2012.

Mr. Newman, a seasoned Board level executive in Financial Services has a strong track record of growing new and developing businesses profitably in banking and insurance. He has over 30 solid years of experience with a particular focus on channel management and development for financial institutions.

In this new role, Mr. Newman will oversee Hong Leong Bank's integrated channels which encompass branch development and operations, customer service, and digital channels.

Hong Leong Bank currently runs the second largest branch banking network in the country.

"The adoption of technology has forced the convergence of branch banking and electronic channels and necessitates an integrated approach to the development of branches and digital channels concurrently. Simon will play a key role in defining and leading the next stage of our branches and channels transformation," commented Datuk Yvonne Chia, Group Managing Director of Hong Leong Bank.

Mr. Newman was most recently CEO of Aviva Singapore and successfully delivered market-leading performance and transformed the business with strong improvements in customer service and staff satisfaction during his three-year tenure there. In United Kingdom, his native country, he was also Director of PruDirect heading Prudential's direct channels as well as Director of Integrated Channel Management of Barclays Bank where he had an illustrious career spanning 24 years.

He holds a Bachelor of Economics and Politics from University of Warwick.-END-Press Release - 04/07/2012