Gulf Finance House (GFH), a Bahrain-based Islamic investment bank, has establsied a new integrated investment banking platform called GFH Capital. GFH has appointed Ted Pretty as group deputy CEO of the bank.

Esam Janahi, chairman of GFH, said: “As part of our plan to build a broad and highly experienced management team the board is pleased to announce the appointment of Ted Pretty as group deputy CEO. He joined GFH in October from his prior role as executive director Macquarie Capital.

“His background in investment banking and his board level and senior executive experience ensure he is ideally qualified for this position. Even at this early stage with GFH, he has demonstrated real leadership qualities and I am happy he is now able to contribute to the group in this enhanced role.”

Mr Pretty said: “I am extremely pleased to be given this opportunity to lead GFH Capital. GFH Capital will incorporate our existing investment management group, our investment placement team, led by Muhannad Hamad, and it will aggressively pursue our investment banking goals.

“This new division will be the prime interface to our investors and also our global partners including Macquarie Group. Macquarie Group is also likely to be mandated on specific asset sales and some new initiatives for 2010.”