David Gareth Thomas assumes the new role of Head of Human Resources for Asia Pacific & MENAT, alongside his role as Interim Global HR Head of Commercial Banking (CMB) at HSBC. Thomas brings a wealth of experience, with nearly five years at HSBC and over two decades in human resources leadership roles across the financial services industry.
In his new position, Thomas is responsible for steering the strategic direction of human resources, cultivating a dynamic and inclusive workplace, and enhancing employee experiences across the regions. His role is instrumental in driving HSBC’s mission to develop strategic human resources policies and practices that align with the company’s goals and values.
At HSBC, Thomas managed the Asia Pacific HR function, leading the development of strategic HR policies and practices, and provided executive relationship management and counsel. His expertise in organization design, executive resourcing, and the management of people implications in mergers and acquisitions has been pivotal in driving HR excellence across the Asia-Pacific region.
Prior to HSBC, Thomas served as Senior Vice President & Head of Human Resources, Asia at Manulife Financial, where he was accountable for the HR function across Asia. In this role, he collaborated with senior business and global HR leaders to drive talent strategies and effectively manage the implementation of a new global HR operating model in Asia. His leadership contributed significantly to achieving the company’s strategic objectives in the region.
Before Manulife Financial, Thomas was at Standard Chartered Bank, where he significantly contributed as Global Head of Country HR & Group Head of Employee Relations. His role included managing and analyzing employee relations risks, creating a high performing HR team in Greater China, and simplifying the senior succession planning process. His efforts in these areas ensured strong risk management leadership to HR across the region and the successful execution of HR strategies in alignment with corporate governance standards.
