MAS Markets Appointed Simon Naish as APAC Head
The firm hired the former ATFX executive to lead its strategic expansion across the Asia-Pacific region.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People
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MAS Markets has named Simon Naish as its new Head of APAC. In this role, Naish is tasked with driving market penetration and building operational teams for the firm across the Asia-Pacific region.
Why it matters
The hire signals a pivot toward regional growth for MAS Markets, as the firm aims to leverage Naish's extensive experience to capture new market opportunities.
The firm, founded in 2021 by Simon Blackledge, is bringing on a veteran with 33 years of experience at National Australia Bank and 3 years at ATFX. This leadership change comes as the company seeks to build its regional footprint.
The players
Simon Naish
The new Head of APAC at MAS Markets who previously served as Australia Country Head for ATFX and spent 33 years at National Australia Bank.
MAS Markets
A financial services firm founded in 2021 by Simon Blackledge.
Simon Blackledge
The founder of MAS Markets who established the firm in 2021.
The details
Naish is responsible for the development and execution of the strategic vision for MAS Markets across the Asia-Pacific region. He will work directly with the senior leadership of MAS Group to establish operational foundations and cultivate strategic partnerships. The firm aims to use this leadership transition to strengthen its competitive position and expand its team infrastructure.
Timeline
MAS Markets was founded in 2021.
The appointment of Simon Naish was announced on October 13, 2026.
Market Landscape
This appointment follows the 2021 founding of MAS Markets and reflects the firm's transition into a more aggressive growth phase. It signals a move to align leadership with the specific operational demands of the Asia-Pacific financial sector.
Operators in the APAC region should monitor MAS Markets' recruitment activity and regional partnership announcements for potential shifts in the competitive landscape. Assessing how the new leadership integrates with local market requirements remains a key indicator for potential supply chain or service changes.
The takeaway
The appointment highlights the priority placed on regional operational experience when scaling financial firms in new territories. Monitor future partnership announcements as a signal of the firm's specific regional growth trajectory.
Further reading
For more on industry moves, visit our People section.
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