31 August 2015
Bahrain - TAKAUD, the specialist provider of savings, investment and pension solutions for the MENA region, is pleased to announce the appointment of Johannes Van Der Dong, a renowned industry expert, as its Chief Investment Officer.

With 15 years of experience in portfolio management, fund selection and investment research, Johannes will lead the firm's investment management function, focusing on the provision of a wide, top-rated range of funds, investment strategies and innovative investment solutions for the Company's growing savings, wealth management and pension clients.

Johannes enjoys considerable knowledge of alternative as well as traditional investments gained from working in Europe and the Middle East.He joins TAKAUD having previously worked with Arab Banking Corporation - Bahrain, where he was Head of Alternative Investments.

Prior to that, he was Head of Traditional Fund Selection at Julius Baer, Switzerland, before becoming Head of Fund Research with Emirates NBD, Dubai. From 1999 to 2006, he was senior portfolio manager and team head at two Dutch institutions - PGGM Investment and Rabobank Asset Management, where he managed portfolios of several billion dollars for their clients.

Johannes said: "I am delighted to be joining TAKAUD at an exciting time in the growth and expansion of its business."

"The level of experience and expertise amongst the team, both the investment consultants as well as support functions, is impressive.  Having the right mix of knowledge and expertise is crucial to the ongoing success of TAKAUD as a unique line of business in this region. I am looking forward to settling into my new role and helping to develop further the investment choice and operation side of the business."

Luc Metivier, TAKAUD CEO, said: "Johannes's appointment is another step towards the TAKAUD business becoming the leadingsavings and investment house in the MENA region.

"Appointing top-notch and experienced talents to our team also affirms our commitment to providing a first class service to our clients, especially from the wealth management segment that often requires unique and tailored investment solutions."

Welcoming Johannes, Luc said: "It is hugely positive that we are continuing to invest in and expand the TAKAUD business at all levels.

"Johannes's industry experience is exceptional, and we are thrilled he has joined the firm as Chief Investment Officer at such an important time for us as we see a great momentum in our individual savings line, wealth management which was launched recently, and several business partnerships in the region.

"He isa valued addition to the team, and will play a vital role as we look to develop and grow the business."

-Ends-

About Takaud Savings and Pensions B.S.C (c)
TAKAUD Savings and Pensions B.S.C. (c) is licensed as an Investment Business Firm (Category 1) by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) and is a closed joint stock company incorporated in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

TAKAUD provides long term savings, investments and pensions solutions to individuals and corporations in the local and expatriate communities across the MENA region.

TAKAUD is 50% owned by Kuwait Projects Company (Holding) K.S.C. (c) (KIPCO) and 50% by United Gulf Bank a member of The KIPCO Group.

The KIPCO Group is one of the biggest holding companies in the Middle East and North Africa, with consolidated assets of US$ 31.3 billion as at 31December, 2014. The Group has significant ownership interests in over 60 companies operating across 26 countries. The group's main business sectors are financial services, media, real estate and manufacturing. Through its core companies, subsidiaries and affiliates, KIPCO also has interests in the education and medical sectors.

TAKAUD Savings and Pensions B.S.C. (c),
UGB Tower 7th Floor | Diplomatic Area |P.O Box 65167| Manama| Kingdom of Bahrain
Office: (+973) 17511611
Email: info@takaud.com
www.takaud.com

© Press Release 2015