Oxford Business Group appoints Marjan Okhowat Country Director for Qatar

Okhowat has carved out a successful career with OBG by taking on key roles in the company's country business analysis throughout the developing world. In her new post, she will oversee all aspects of The Report: Qatar 2010, the Group's upcoming annual business report on the country's economy.

Commenting on her new appointment, Okhowat said:

"These are exciting times in Qatar's economic development, with the government looking to move forward with its diversification programme and promote growth, while also controlling inflation. I welcome the opportunity to be in Qatar and work on OBG's new report about the country at such a significant time."

Before taking up her new challenge in Qatar, Okhowat held the position of Country Director in Ras Al Khaimah, the United Arab Emirates, where she had the overall responsibility for preparing The Report: RAK 2009. Prior to this, she worked on projects in the Caribbean, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and Libya.

Okhowat graduated from the University of Toronto with a Specialist in Management and Economics. She was awarded a scholarship to study at the University of Hong Kong on a summer programme and consolidated her studies with a series of courses which included Macro and Micro Economics, International Business and Business Negotiations. During her career, Okhowat has travelled extensively through the Middle East, Asia, North America and Europe.

Elizabeth Boissevain, OBG's Director of Field Operations, said Okhowat's valuable project work had provided her with considerable expertise, particularly in business analysis of the GCC region.

"This knowledge will ensure that she is well equipped to take on the exciting challenge of Country Director in Qatar," she said.

The Report: Qatar 2010 will be will be a vital guide to the many facets of the country, including its macroeconomics, infrastructure, political landscape, banking and sectoral developments. Written by a team of seasoned analysts from OBG who are based on the ground for six months, it is set to be the premier guide for foreign direct investment into Qatar's economy. Available in print form and online, The Report: Qatar 2010 will include interviews with leading political and economic figures.