GME Announces Strategic Appointments of James Martin as Chief Growth Officer and Kevin O’Reilly as Head of Commodities

Business

GME Announces Strategic Appointments of James Martin as Chief Growth Officer and Kevin O’Reilly as Head of Commodities

Gulf Mercantile Exchange (GME), the leading international commodities exchange in the Middle East, has announced two key leadership appointments aimed at strengthening its global growth and innovation strategy. James Martin has been appointed as Chief Growth Officer, while Kevin O’Reilly will take on the role of Head of Commodities.

These appointments reinforce GME’s commitment to expanding its regional and international footprint, driving innovation, and enhancing its position in the global commodities market.

Experienced Leadership to Drive Strategic Expansion

Based between Dubai and London, James Martin brings over 25 years of experience in leading capital market development across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. A proven growth strategist, Martin has previously driven major initiatives across international financial centres and investment hubs.

Before joining GME, he served as Chief Development & Investment Officer at the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) and held senior leadership positions at Nasdaq/OMX, where he oversaw market expansion across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

Commodity Market Expertise

Kevin O’Reilly joins GME with extensive experience in global commodity markets, including energy, carbon, and derivatives trading. His career spans leadership roles at world-renowned institutions such as Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs, where he managed commodity trading teams, developed complex financial structures, and led investor-focused strategies.

Strengthening GME’s Growth Vision

Commenting on the appointments, Raid Al-Salami, Managing Director of GME, said:

“We are delighted to welcome James and Kevin to GME. Their combined expertise in capital markets, commodity trading, and strategic growth will play a pivotal role in strengthening our leadership team and driving our vision to position GME as a leading regional and international commodity exchange.”

He added:

“These appointments represent an important milestone in our growth journey and reaffirm our commitment to delivering innovative, secure, and efficient market solutions for our clients. We also extend our gratitude to Spencer Stuart for their invaluable support in facilitating this recruitment process.”

With these strategic additions, GME aims to further solidify its reputation as a trusted and forward-thinking commodities exchange, fostering global connectivity and sustainable market growth.