Leadership Changes at Maybank Investment Bank: A New Era Begins
Kuala Lumpur is buzzing with an announcement from Maybank that marks a significant leadership transition within its Investment Banking sector. On October 28, 2024, Michael Oh-Lau will step into the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Maybank Investment Bank Berhad (Maybank IB), while Tengku Ariff Azhar Tengku Mohamed will assume the position of Deputy CEO. This restructuring is set to enhance Maybank’s status as a preeminent player in regional investment banking.
Michael Oh-Lau: A Visionary at the Helm
Michael Oh-Lau, who has already been driving the investment banking division since December 2022 as CEO of Maybank Investment Banking Group (Maybank IBG), is no stranger to leadership. His appointment as the CEO of Maybank IB will see him steer the bank toward even greater heights in the Malaysian market, all while reinforcing the bank’s regional leadership.
Since taking charge, Michael has been pivotal in executing landmark deals across the ASEAN region, handling initial public offerings (IPOs), mergers and acquisitions, Sukuk issuances, and sustainable finance transactions. His forward-thinking approach has been particularly evident in new product launches, such as structured warrants in Indonesia and an innovative trading application, recently rolled out in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
Tengku Ariff Azhar: A Proven Leader
Joined by Tengku Ariff Azhar as the new Deputy CEO, Maybank Investment Bank is set to bolster its operations significantly. Tengku Ariff brings with him a wealth of experience, having served as Head of Debt Capital Markets before transitioning to Chief Operating Officer in December 2021, and later as Officer-in-Charge at Maybank IB in January 2024. His proficiency in managing client relationships and ensuring the delivery of comprehensive solutions will be invaluable as he works closely with Michael.
With over two decades in the investment banking arena, Tengku Ariff has not only led multiple award-winning transactions but has also been instrumental in enhancing operational systems. His recent achievement includes the successful launch of the Maybank Trade MY mobile app, designed to streamline trading for retail brokers.
Strategic Vision and Market Leadership
Dato’ Khairussaleh Ramli, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Maybank, voiced his confidence in the leadership transition. He stated that both Michael and Tengku Ariff exemplify a robust talent pipeline within the organization, widely respected by clients and peers alike. Their combined experience and leadership acumen are expected to propel Maybank’s investment banking franchise, with Malaysia positioned as the epicenter of excellence.
This strategic move aligns seamlessly with Maybank’s M25+ strategy, which aims to enhance the bank’s competitive edge while providing exceptional value in investment banking.
Maybank IBG: A Regional Powerhouse
Maybank IBG serves as the heart of Maybank’s investment banking operations, comprising Maybank IB in Malaysia while also maintaining a substantial presence in five other key ASEAN markets: Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Furthermore, Maybank has extended its footprint to prominent financial centers such as Hong Kong, India, and the UK.
The upcoming appointments of Michael Oh-Lau and Tengku Ariff Azhar are pivotal not only for Maybank IB but also for the broader landscape of investment banking in the region, as they prepare to tackle new challenges and seize exciting opportunities.