ANZ today announced Samira Fares has been appointed ANZ Country Head, Laos, reporting to Chris Raciti, ANZ Head of South East Asia, India and Middle East, subject to regulatory approval.
Commenting on the appointment, Chris Raciti said: "Samira's appointment to the role reaffirm's ANZ's commitment to the region, and highlights the importance of the Laos business to our international banking network.
"Samira has a reputation for disciplined risk management, deep client engagement and thoughtful leadership. Her experience working with complex corporate clients, combined with her analytical capability and a clear commitment to stakeholders, makes her well‑suited to lead our business in Laos."
Ms Fares brings more than 13 years of experience across institutional banking. In her eight years at ANZ, she has held senior roles across Lending Services, Research & Analysis and relationship management. Most recently, she served as Director, Diversified Industries, leading a portfolio of publicly listed, private and offshore owned corporates across manufacturing, retail and logistics.
Ms Fares will relocate to Laos and is expected to commence in the role in the coming months, subject to the necessary regulatory and travel approvals.
"As the first international bank to operate in Laos, ANZ has been a committed investor since 2007. With nearly two decades in the market, we continue to strengthen our unique position for multinational clients through our ongoing presence and long-term commitment to Laos," Mr Raciti said.
"Samira will play a key role in deepening our client and regulatory relationships, strengthening our governance foundations, and shaping the next phase of growth for ANZ in Laos."
ANZ Institutional
ANZ Institutional is recognised as the leading Institutional Bank in Australia and New Zealand, and a leading Corporate Bank in Asia, achieved through its extensive global network and deep customer relationships. With over 180 years of heritage, ANZ Institutional operates in almost 30 markets worldwide, including more than 10 locations across Asia.
As a top payments provider in the Asia-Pacific, ANZ Institutional provides comprehensive and innovative solutions across cash management, trade finance, and financial markets - including debt capital markets - alongside corporate finance with a dedicated sustainable finance team. Together with its global ANZ Research team, ANZ Institutional helps clients navigate complex markets and achieve their goals.
