Global software provider China Systems has hired Aneel Sabir in its regional sales team for the Middle East, as it looks to bolster its presence in the area and strengthen its digital trade finance offering.  

Sabir started in the role in March this year and is based in Dubai. He reports to Graham Clarke, managing director at China Systems Middle East.

He joins from Enigio, where as head of Mena for the technology firm he helped expand the adoption of digital documentation.

Sabir has more than 20 years of experience in trade finance at banks and fintechs. Previous roles include head of commercialisation and client success for the Middle East at now-shuttered blockchain trade finance network Contour and senior manager and digital lead for wholesale banking at Commercial Bank International UAE. 

He also spent more than a decade in various roles at HSBC in both the Middle East and the UK, including country head of trade finance services in Doha.  

Clarke said the appointment “reflects our continued investment in the Middle East as a critical growth market”. 

“[Sabir’s] expertise at the intersection of trade finance as a banker and digital innovation aligns strongly with our vision to support banks and corporates as they modernise their operations and unlock new efficiencies,” he said.

Sabir added: “China Systems has long been recognised for its robust trade finance platform and commitment to innovation. I am excited to join at a time when the industry is undergoing significant transformation, with increasing momentum around digitalisation, standards and ecosystem collaboration. 

“The Middle East presents a unique opportunity to accelerate this evolution.”