Andrew Thorburn, National Australia Bank Group CEO, toasts to the success of the bank’s China business alongside David Wang, Beijing Branch Manager
Building on existing capability and coverage in China, National Australia Bank formally opened its Beijing branch on 17 November. Officiated by Group CEO, Andrew Thorburn, and Group Executive Business Banking, Angela Mentis, the branch opening event was attended by over 150 key institutional customers as well as Australian government and trade representatives.
Together with the bank’s Shanghai branch, the new Beijing branch supports Chinese institutional and corporate customers looking to trade with or invest in Australia and New Zealand, particularly in the bank’s areas of expertise: the energy, utilities, natural resources, food and agribusiness sectors. The bank’s purpose in Greater China is also to support Australian and New Zealand businesses looking to trade with or invest in China and the rest of Asia.
Welcoming guests at the opening ceremony, Andrew Thorburn said, “Back in 1982 we opened our first representative office here in Beijing. Now, some 33 years later, we remain committed to investing in our capabilities in China to meet the growing needs of our customers. With our new Beijing branch, our capable team of over 500 employees across Asia and our dedicated bankers with Asian capabilities back home, I am confident that we can open new doors, and unlock new opportunities for our customers.”
Sharing Andrew’s sentiments, Justin Hayhurst, Charge D’Affaires at the Australian Embassy in Beijing, said in his address, “Tonight’s branch opening demonstrates National Australia Bank’s ongoing commitment to China – to being a reliable and steadfast partner to Chinese customers and a link between them and Australia. The bank’s track record of strength in agriculture banking will also serve it well as investors in both countries expand ties in agribusiness.”
The new Beijing branch is managed by David Wang while the bank’s overall China business continues to be managed by Danny Armstrong, General Manager of China Banking. With experienced local and international teams that have extensive experience and insights in the Greater China region, the bank ensures that customers remain well supported and connected across Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
In addition to the new Beijing branch, the bank’s recent approval from the China Banking Regulatory Commission for a Renminbi license for its Shanghai branch will also enable National Australia Bank to help customers explore wider business opportunities, better manage foreign exchange risks and enhance business efficiencies in China.
To Learn more about National Australia Bank’s Asia business at: http://www.nabasia.com/