Jason Barrass has joined Barclays as head of Africa trade.

The role is newly-created and based in Johannesburg. He joins the bank from JP Morgan, where he was managing director, head of trade sales for Emea. Previous to this, he worked as manager for global trade finance, Central Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa at Standard Bank.

At Barclays, he will be responsible for the bank’s pan-Africa trade business across structured trade and trade finance. He will report into Tan Kah Chye, global head of trade and working capital, and Chris Kotze, head of product, Africa.

Barrass says of his appointment: “Africa is a key home market for Barclays, and trade and working capital is an important driver for the corporate banking strategy. This is a great time to be joining the team and I look forward to delivering the Africa trade proposition to the bank’s local and global customers.”

Chris Kotze comments: “Jason’s background and expertise makes him an ideal candidate to lead our trade offering in Africa. The region presents a number of opportunities for global corporates and with trade a key focus for Barclays, Jason’s appointment will further synergise our Africa network with our global footprint.”

While Tan Kah Chye says: “Our clients want global integration, particularly as Africa increasingly grows in importance. Jason’s appointment therefore ensures we can provide our clients with on-the-ground expertise and support, and a business offering where Africa is fully integrated with the rest of the world.”