Goldman Japan appoints new chairman

Asuke joins from Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp (SMBC) following a 37-year career which culminated in his position as deputy president in June 2000.

Prior to this, he had held a number of senior appointments including director and general manager of bank's New York branch. He was promoted to managing director at Sumitomo Bank in November 1994 and served as a member of SMBC's executive committee from 1996.

Asuke will take up his new post in late June. Commenting on the appointment, Goldman Sachs chairman Hank Paulson says, "We're delighted to welcome Akio Asuke to the firm. He brings a wealth of experience and we look forward to benefiting from his wisdom and insights as we build even closer relations with our Japanese clients and our overseas clients conducting business in Japan."