Biography
With a distinguished career spanning various industries, Francis Dassou is renowned for his expertise in guiding organizations through complex transformations. As Chairman, he champions innovation and sustainable growth, ensuring the company's long-term vision aligns with stakeholder interests. His strategic acumen has been instrumental in numerous successful ventures.
Francis is a senior international banker with 25+ years of cross border capital market experience. He started his career in corporate finance before moving to the capital market industry.
After a successful career in Paris with large multinationals such as BNP Paribas and CNP Assurance in Paris, he joined HSBC in Luxembourg to enhance their hedge fund product capabilities and develop mutual fund business by connecting east and west.
During his 8 years, he provided many sophisticated solutions for top tier asset owners and managers in:
- Tax structure
- Fund domiciles
- Distribution models
In 2011, he played a key role in launching a pioneering and global Islamic finance solutions for HSBC Securities Services and landed signature Shariah-compliant mandates.
In 2014, he was transferred to the Middle-East and promoted as Head of Regional Fund Services and Global Custody. Based in Bahrain, he covered the GCC region and delivered double digit growth in AUM and revenue.
He successfully rebuilt the securities services business and increased significantly market share and brand value.
He firmly believes in cross-business collaboration and synergies. He established a growth catalyst with HSBC Commercial Bank and Private Bank businesses across HSBC geographies to deliver client solutions and win joint mandates.
Under his leadership, the franchise won many industry accolades.
His passion for the capital market industry led him to actively contribute to the fund industry through his advisor roles in prestigious capital market industry bodies.
During his tenure in the region as a valuable member of the HSS MENA Regional Executive Committee, he led many key initiatives for the bank and helped local regulators and exchanges in relation to industry and international market best practices.
After his successful two decades of international experience, he helped regional financial institutions to:
- Adapt business models with industry demands
- Create new revenue corridors
- Expand footprint
- Build strategic cross-border alliances
He recently decided to set up his advisory firm to help more broadly capital market institutions and family offices to thrive.
Moreover, Francis believes that senior executives have an obligation of transmitting and helping young generations of talents. He is the founder and chairman of a new business school model in Pondicherry, India.
1998 – Present
Career journey
–
Early Career Roles
Multiple locations
Gained foundational experience in banking, operations and financial analysis. Developed core skills in client services and risk management.
–
International Investment Banks
Senior Manager, Corporate Strategy
Paris
Advised on market trends and contributed to capital market infrastructure expansion in the region.
–
Fund Industry Experts
Director of Client Management & Business Growth
Luxembourg
Led strategic transformation projects and significant growth across Europe & Asia.
–
Senior Regional Role
Head of Capital Market Products
Bahrain
Developed investment solutions, optimised revenue generation and expanded UCITS & mutual fund services.
–
Managing Director
KSA
Helped local and regional financial institutions to enhance their capital market presence in the Middle East and Asia.
– Present
FDLX Solutions
Founder & Managing Director
Bahrain
Advisory to capital markets institutions.
www.fdlx.co
