The CII is opening a new office to cover the Middle East and Africa (MEA).
This is in response to growing demand from the region for the raising of professional standards.
The CII has appointed Gaenor Jones as regional director, MEA, for the CII and Personal Finance Society (PFS).
As insurance and financial services providers continue to grow and invest in MEA, there is increasing demand for the CII's professional qualifications, training and continuing professional development in the region. The CII already has established links with the regulators and financial companies based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and this new hub will help serve the region more effectively. The new role of MEA regional director will be responsible for building on these relationships and developing the CII offering in the region.
Keith Richards, director of engagement at the CII, said: "It is fantastic to see how the financial services community is growing and developing in MEA and with it, an increased appetite for professional standards. As the international Chartered professional body for insurance and financial services, we are committed to an established and developing collaboration with the UAE authorities.
"We equally want to better support existing and new members in the region more effectively and this new hub will enable us to do this. Gaenor's experience of working within the region will be invaluable in this new role and we are very pleased that she has joined us."