Merlin Swire will succeed John Slosar as Chairman of Swire Pacific Limited, with effect from 1st July 2018. Mr Swire will also become Chairman of Swire Properties Limited and Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited ("HAECO") in place of Mr Slosar. Mr Slosar will remain as Chairman of Cathay Pacific Airways Limited, but will otherwise retire from the Swire group.

Of his appointment, Merlin Swire said, "This move back to Hong Kong reflects how important Hong Kong is to the group's business and reaffirms the Swire family's long-term commitment to Swire Pacific at a time of rapid change and exciting growth opportunities. I would like to add my thanks to John for his leadership and immense contribution to the development of Swire Pacific over his career." Commenting on Mr Swire's appointment, John Slosar said, "Merlin's appointment continues Swire's longstanding practice of appointing leaders from within the group. As Chairman, he will deepen our key relationships in the region and will lead the group in its next chapter of growth. Our future is in good hands."

Merlin Swire, aged 44, is currently Chief Executive Officer and a Director of John Swire & Sons. He is also a Director of Swire Pacific, Swire Properties, Cathay Pacific and HAECO. He joined the Swire group in Hong Kong in 1997, and has worked in Hong Kong, Sydney, Shanghai, Xiamen, and London. Click here to read more.