FT’s Thompson signs off

Hong Kong - Christie's International has hired ex-Financial Times (FT) managing director of Asia Pacific Su-Mei Thompson as senior VP, director of strategic business development, Asia - she officially assumes duties in June.

As to Thompson's replacement at FT, Azmar Sukandar, regional communications manager Asia Pacific for FT said the company "was not ready to announce anything yet" as Thompson would only be stepping down in a few months time.

In her new role, Thompson -- who will be based in Hong Kong and reports to Edward Dolman, CEO, Christie's International -- will have direct responsibility for strategic planning, business development, marketing and public relations throughout Asia and will oversee Christie's network of regional representatives in Singapore, Seoul, Taipei, Mumbai, Beijing, Shanghai, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta. She will also serve as a member of Christie's Asia Management Committee and as a director of Christie's Hong Kong where she will be a member of the senior executive team.

"Su-Mei's knowledge of the market, her proven track record in sales, strategic planning and business development with leading global organisations, her strong professional network and her familiarity with ever-evolving media and technologies will serve us well as we continue to grow our presence in this dynamic region," Dolman said.

Thompson has been with the FT for the last four years during which she oversaw project launches such as the publication's dedicated Asian edition in print and online, Chinese language website and conferences business in the region, amongst others.