It is with the deepest regret that we have learned of the tragic loss of Jason Downer, head of trade finance, Europe Arab Bank plc.

Downer was sailing with friends in the English Channel when their yacht ‘Ouzo’ was involved in a fatal accident resulting in the deaths of all three crew members.

He will be fondly remembered by many in the City of London and the Middle East business community from his trade finance roles at ANZ Bank, Credit Lyonnais, London Forfaiting Company and Cable & Wireless.

Most recently, Downer’s high level of commitment and professionalism were of key importance in the development of trade finance business at Arab Bank and Europe Arab Bank, claim colleagues.

Amin Husseini, global head of financial institutions, Global Banking Group, Arab Bank plc states: “We have had the great fortune of working with Jason who demonstrated genuine dedication for his work and to his colleagues at Arab Bank worldwide. Our hearts are engulfed with deep sorrow now that a rare human being whose passion for life touched us all is no longer among us. The impact of his absence will definitely be felt by us all.”