Bangkok--Nov 4--Spark Communications SE Asian Appointment has a Primary Focus on Thai Market RSM Nelson Wheeler (Thailand), part of RSM International, the world’s sixth largest professional service accounting and business consulting group, has announced the appointment of Sir James Hodge, former British Ambassador to Thailand, as a senior advisor to the business. Sir James will act in an advisory role for RSM Nelson Wheeler’s operations across Southeast Asia, but will maintain a primary strategic focus on the Thai market. Sir James was a career diplomat for 37 years, and served most of his years overseas with Britain’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office throughout the Asia Pacific region. His various postings have included British Ambassador to Thailand and Laos from 1996-2000, Consul-General to Hong Kong and Macau (2000-03), Deputy Head of Mission and Consul-General to the People’s Republic of China (1995-96), and Commercial Counsellor in Japan (1982-86). The advisory role with RSM Nelson Wheeler is the first private sector position for Sir James — one in which is ideally suited to his extensive experience and knowledge of Asian markets. Sir James said: “My new role with RSM Nelson Wheeler is a wonderful opportunity to interact again with many of the colleagues and friends in markets where I’ve spent the greater part of my career. The business environment in Thailand is both exciting and dynamic, and I’m looking forward to helping foster relations in the private sector and further strengthen RSM Nelson Wheeler’s position in the market.” Gareth Hughes, Managing Director of RSM Nelson Wheeler (Thailand), said: “We’re delighted to have Sir James involved in our strategic business development. His engaging personality and keen negotiating skills made him a very popular diplomat here in Thailand, and his expertise in Asian markets and extensive business and political networks certainly make him a valuable asset to RSM Nelson Wheeler.” Earlier this year RSM Nelson Wheeler (Thailand) launched RSMLI, a joint venture with HK-based professional insurance and investment broker, MLI Limited, to provide financial advisory, tax planning and management services to clients. Sir James’s added involvement will help increase awareness within the Thai business community of this added-value service now being offered by RSMLI. During his time as British Ambassador to Thailand, Sir James played a key role in developing relations between the UK and Thailand, including securing the agreement of both governments to an Action Agenda, a “road map” for Anglo-Thai relations. About RSM Nelson Wheeler (Thailand) Limited RSM Nelson Wheeler (Thailand) Limited was founded in 2001 as a full service consulting practice, providing a comprehensive range of accounting and business legal services. RSM Nelson Wheeler (Thailand) is part of RSM International, the world’s sixth largest professional service accounting and business consulting group. With 600 offices in 70 countries and more than 19,000 individuals, RSM Nelson Wheeler is focused on a common vision of excellence based on the simple principle of always producing quality work for quality clients. For more information, please contact: Neal McCarthy General Manager Spark Communications ph. 02.653.2717-9 [email protected] Click for photo release at www.thaipr.net End.