Former HSBC CEO receives Order of Merit

Former HSBC Malta CEO Shaun Wallis recently received the National Order of Merit from the government in recognition of his achievements in supporting the Maltese economy.

HSBC Malta CEO Alan Richards congratulated Mr Wallis, saying that "the conferment with the honorary membership of the National Order of Merit is a remarkable achievement and honour for both Shaun Wallis and HSBC".

This year, the President, on behalf of the government and people of Malta, paid public tribute to 19 people who distinguished themselves in different fields. The Investiture Ceremony took place at the Palace, Valletta, on Republic Day.

Mr Wallis was instrumental in the negotiations between the Maltese government and HSBC during the sale of Mid-Med Bank in 1999. Mr Wallis made his mark on the Maltese scene by taking a deep interest in both Malta's heritage and environment.

He set up two funds for assisting Malta's different needs in both heritage and culture and, through his initiative, HSBC Malta were the first promoters of the 34U, as well as investors in the EkoSkola project. He also facilitated the participation of Malta in the Climate Change Project organised by HSBC worldwide.

Mr Wallis played a big part in the setting up of an international call centre for HSBC which resulted in the creation of 500 new jobs.

He has been with the HSBC Group for over 30 years and served in Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Following his posting to Malta, Mr Wallis was appointed chief executive of HSBC Bank in Brazil and is now posted in Hong Kong as global head of business management.