GLAS, the leading independent provider of finance administration services, has appointed Xavier Poussardin as Head of Capital Markets Business Development (EMEA). He will be responsible for expanding GLAS’ services beyond direct lending and entering new geographies. Xavier’s appointment supports GLAS’ continued growth in the industry. As banks face increased challenges to provide agency and trustee services due to compliance and regulatory requirements, demand for independent firms has increased.

Poussardin was previously Vice President at Deutsche Bank where he spent the last seven years in the Global Transaction Banking team. Before this, he worked at Bank of New York as Vice President for five years. In these two roles, Poussardin gained experience in growing teams and working across multiple geographies, including the Middle East and mainland Europe. He also developed extensive knowledge of the agency and trustee market and was involved in one of the largest project finance transactions in Saudi Arabia ($14bn Saudi Aramco Total Refining and Petrochemical company complex).

Xavier comments: “GLAS’ tight and professional approach is exactly what firms need as traditional providers move away from this area. Banks have become restricted and confined in the business they can now offer due to increased scrutiny from the regulator, and this has meant independent and flexible services are now fundamental to the market. This, combined with a team that is formed of some of the most experienced leaders in the industry, drove my decision to come on board. GLAS is well positioned to continue its growth and deliver for clients and prospects all over the world.”

Mia Drennan, CEO and Founder, added: “Xavier’s mix of entrepreneurial spirit and corporate experience is exactly what GLAS needs to take it to the next level. He knows how different regions operate so has a clear understanding of the dynamics of the market. These attributes, alongside the network he’s grown over the years, means he can effectively and efficiently work with local teams to get the job done. It’s a great way to end 2016. A year in which we’ve made seven strategic hires and opened up three new offices in Singapore, Melbourne and New York. Hiring Xavier reflects our determination to provide the best team to support our client base anywhere in the world.”