American Express has new country lead

American Express has appointed Cheng Heng Chew (pictured) as the new country manager and head of the consumer card portfolio.  Cheng succeeds Yoshimi Nakajima, who returned to Tokyo to lead Acquisition, Product Line and Card Member Engagement for American Express’ consumer card business in Japan.In his new role, Cheng will head the consumer card business in Singapore.  He will focus on growing the Card business in Singapore, by continuing to increase American Express’ presence in the market, and enhancing values it provides to its merchant partners and card members.Cheng joined the company in 1996 and started his career with American Express in Finance and Strategic Planning. His most recent appointment was head of partner card services Asia, managing the relationships with key strategic alliance partners, card issuers and acquirers in more than 10 markets in the Asia region, including key emerging markets such as Indonesia.Departing Singapore country manager of American Express Yoshimi Nakajima, who assumed the position in September 2011, said: “Singapore is a very important market for American Express and I am confident that Heng Chew will lead the business to greater heights.”