Qiu is new Barclays vice chairman for Asia-Pacific

Zhi Zhong Qiu will be responsible for senior client relationships as new Barclays Capital Vice Chairman for Asia Pacific and Chairman of Greater China.

He will also provide senior coverage for financial institutions, government agencies and corporates in identifying and capturing business opportunities across the complete spectrum of advisory, capital raising and risk management, especially on cross-border transactions.

He will be based in Hong Kong and will report to Robert Morrice, Chairman and CEO, Barclays Asia and the Head of Investment Banking, Asia Pacific.

Until April 2009, Mr Qiu was Chairman of ABN Amro China and Vice Chairman ABN Amro Asia, a role he took up in May 2006. Previously, he was the Chairman of Greater China Region at CSFB.

"Having built his investment banking career over many years in China, Zhi Zhong Qiu has cultivated deep client relationships and has established a well deserved reputation as a strong leader. His appointment will continue the growth of Barclays Capital's successful businesses in China for the benefit of our clients. He is ideally suited to oversee our Greater China operations and will play an invaluable role as we build out our platform in Asia," said Robert Morrice.

Mr Qiu commented, "Greater China is a great strategic opportunity for Barclays Capital. The firm has established a strong foothold in the Greater China region, particularly with the recent investment in New China Trust and through its strategic relationship with China Development Bank. Barclays is clearly committed to growing the franchise in the region and to the continued development of innovative products and services for our clients."