HSBC APAC CMO Suresh Balaji sets to leave firm after 17 years

Suresh Balaji is stepping down as chief marketing officer at HSBC APAC. According to his LinkedIn, Balaji said his role at HSBC has commenced countdown after staying at the company for 17 years, having worked for eight roles at four locations. “Thank you, HSBC, colleagues, mentors, business partners and friends for all the love. HSBC will always have a special place in my heart,” Balaji added.

Prior to being CMO, he was managing director and global head of marketing, HSBC Life. He also spent over five years as managing director and regional head of marketing for APAC at HSBC where he led marketing for 14 countries with a team of over 250 marketing practitioners for HSBC’s Retail and Wealth Management business in Asia Pacific to develop strategies that brand equity and business growth.

Previously, HSBC Hong Kong has launched a brand-new campaign “Hong Kong inspired by the world” to highlight the diverse culture and prosperity of the city, by featuring concepts including food and beverage, movies, art and pop music. Although being a small city, Hong Kong is able to bring together a variety of innovative ideas, and there have been many success stories with local and international characteristics over the years, said the press release by HSBC.

As such, the campaign features a variety of unique elements that represent Hong Kong, including local snacks and authentic cuisine namely egg waffles, Swiss chicken wings and Shanghai noodles, as well as martial arts movies. 

The static ad will be promoted on print media such as a number of local newspapers, out-of-home (OOH) advertising will also be used on tram shelters and MTR stations. The digital version of the ad will also be shown on the massive billboard at HSBC main building.

Related article:

HSBC says communist party committee has 'no influence' in running of biz
HSBC and K11 Group partner to leverage on each others huge membership base