Jason Barrass joins Barclays as Head of Africa Trade

The FINANCIAL — Barclays has appointed Jason Barrass as Head of Africa Trade, a new role based in Johannesburg.

As Barclays said, Jason will be responsible for Barclays pan-Africa trade business across structured trade, to the flow business, supporting global corporate clients with their trade finance needs.

Jason is a well-recognised industry expert both in Africa and globally. He brings with him a wealth of experience having spent the majority of his career servicing clients in the emerging markets. Jason joins Barclays in Africa from JP Morgan where he was a Managing Director in the global trade organisation and Head of Trade Sales for the region. Prior to joining JP Morgan, Jason was employed by Standard Bank in London as the Manager for Global Trade Finance, Central Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa.

The appointment of Jason further strengthens Barclays growing local corporate banking presence in Africa, and reinforces Barclays’ strategy of significant growth and commitment in the region. Jason will report into Kah Chye Tan, Global Head of Trade and Working Capital and Chris Kotze, Head of Product, Africa.

Commenting on his appointment, Jason Barrass said: “Africa is a key home market for Barclays, and trade and working capital is an important driver for the corporate banking strategy. This is a great time to be joining the team and I look forward to delivering the Africa trade proposition to the banks local and global customers.”

Chris Kotze, Head of Product, Africa at Barclays commented: “Jason’s background and expertise makes him an ideal candidate to lead our trade offering in Africa. The region presents a number of opportunities for global corporates and with trade a key focus for Barclays, Jason’s appointment will further synergise our Africa network with our global footprint.”

Kah Chye Tan, Global Head of Trade and Working Capital at Barclays added: “Our clients want global integration, particularly as Africa increasingly grows in importance. Jason’s appointment therefore ensures we can provide our clients with on-the-ground expertise and support, and a business offering where Africa is fully integrated with the rest of the world.”