Citi has announced senior leadership appointments across its Banking and International franchise, effective August 2026, with roles based between London and Dubai. Karim Tannir will join Citi as Middle East and Africa Cluster and Banking Head, based in Dubai, while Ebru Pakcan will become Chief Operating Officer for International and Legacy Franchises.
Tannir is a highly regarded industry leader with more than 30 years of experience in the region, having advised governments, corporates, financial institutions, and sovereign entities on some of the Middle East’s most significant strategic and financing decisions. He most recently served as HSBC’s Head of Banking for the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye, and previously spent more than 25 years at J.P. Morgan, including as Vice Chairman for EMEA. In his new role, Tannir will lead Citi’s MEA business across 59 markets, spearheading client strategy and regional franchise growth.
Pakcan has led Citi’s MEA region for the past five years, delivering double-digit growth and entrenching Citi’s position as the leading international bank across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. She brings deep product management experience, including global head roles in Trade, Payments, and Treasury and Trade Solutions for EMEA. Mary McNiff, stepping away from her role as COO for International and Legacy Franchises, will continue to lead Citi’s firmwide policy simplification program.
KEY QUOTES:
“As cross-border activity becomes more complex and more critical for our clients, the strength of our international franchise matters more than ever. Karim is one of the Middle East’s most respected banking leaders, with strong client relationships and deep regional insight. Alongside Ebru and Mary, this team enhances our ability to grow responsibly while maintaining rigorous risk and controls.”
Ernesto Torres Cantú, Head of International, Citi
“Karim brings decades of trusted relationships across the Middle East. Our franchise in the region continues to perform with momentum, and we remain committed to the Middle East for the long term.”
Vis Raghavan, Head of Banking, Citi
