Alvarez & Marsal hires veteran to lead China push

Alvarez & Marsal has appointed Ron Thompson as managing director and head of restructuring to lead the firm’s growth efforts in China.

Thompson, who will be based in Hong Kong, has joined the professional services firm from Chartered Bank in China where he was chief credit officer. Prior to that he worked on the corporate finance teams at Bear Stearns and Bank of China International and also oversaw the China activities of New York private equity firm Clearwater Capital. Alvarez & Marsal said Thompson will focus on China in his new role.

“Ron has worked in China since 1988 and possesses a depth and breadth of experience that is virtually unrivalled,” said James Dubow, head of Alvarez & Marsal’s Asia practice. “He knows the market and understands the range of challenges our clients face. His in-depth knowledge is critical for businesses seeking ways to get back on their feet and unlock value.”

Among his range of roles Thompson has acted as a creditor, investor and advisor related within court restructurings and liquidations and served as an investor in sourcing, valuing, acquiring and managing non-performing loan portfolios.

The hire of Thompson continues Alvarez & Marsal’s build-up in the region following the hiring of specialists in Hong Kong, Seoul and Singapore in the last 18 months, a period that included the opening of a Singapore office.