Two former HSBC executives have joined forces to launch Via Group, a global communications firm focused on supporting the finance ecosystem—including banks, venture capital, private equity, insurers and asset managers—with cross-border communications and brand building needs in both Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
Via’s founders are Tala Booker and Dan Fitzpatrick, who both left executive communications positions at HSBC after 12 years.
Via will have HSBC as its anchor client, including being appointed the lead global communications firm for helping further build out the profile of “HSBC Innovation Banking,” the global bank’s new subsidiary brand focused on banking tech and new economy businesses, which was launched in mid-June.
“Asia and the Middle East’s economic growth is incredible, but the two regions remain largely unknown and misunderstood to many in the west,” said Fitzpatrick, who, while at HSBC, led the set up of the bank’s global internationalism thematic as head of communications for HSBC Singapore. “Yet, through this complexity will come opportunity, and we want to help firms enter and navigate these markets with impactful brand building, commercialization strategies and razor-sharp content.”
“Via will be laser-focused on firms across the finance spectrum who are seeking capital raising, investment, and business expansion across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East,” said Booker, who was managing director and global head of communications for commercial banking for HSBC Holdings plc, leading the successful launch of HSBC Innovation Banking among other achievements. “Via will act as the connector for western firms in these dynamic markets.
“We feel the sharpness of our sector and geographic focus is a gap in the market. When you combine that with our cross-border communications experience, high-touch advisory and sector knowledge, Via brings a unique point of difference. We’re here to disrupt the finance agency landscape with our unmatched dynamism and ability to bring commercial impact for our clients.”
For more information, visit www.wearevia.com or reach out directly to Fitzpatrick and/or Booker.