Advent Software appoints new head of professional services for the Middle East and North Africa
Advent Software, a provider of software and services for the global investment management industry, has announced the appointment of Hazem Elmalla as the new head of professional services in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). In this role, Mr. Elmalla will support Advent’s ongoing operation and be responsible for the professional services teams dedicated to clients in the region.
Advent Software has been engaged in the Middle East and North Africa and active as a member of the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) since 2004. More than 30 MENA-based clients today use Advent’s specific local solutions combined with its investment management systems. As evidence of the company’s commitment to the region and to understanding the needs of clients in MENA, Advent maintains a full-service office in Dubai, which is staffed by close to 20 professionals, including sales, relationship management, professional services and client support resources. Advent also provides clients with access to its strategic consulting relationships in the region as part of its full MENA support.
Hazem Elmalla has been with Advent for more than ten years, five of which include experience in the MENA region, and has been instrumental in growing Advent’s business locally.
“We are proud that so many firms have responded to the Advent’s products and services in the MENA region, and have expanded our local team to ensure that we can support the growing demand,” said Hazem Elmalla, head of professional services MENA, Advent. “I look forward to building on our foundation to deliver solutions that support our clients’ ongoing success.”
Commenting on the regional expansion of Advent’s services team, H√•kan Valberg, senior vice president and general manager, Advent Software EMEA, said, “The services team in MENA has doubled in the last two years as we develop the business in the region. Hazem already has great relationships with and a deep understanding of our clients. In his new role, he will help reinforce our strong commitment to building long-term relationships with our clients in this region.”

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