“China’s rapid economic growth and rising interest in and consumption of luxury goods, particularly among the business elite and aspiring middle class, means that it’s an ideal time to launch this new section on FTChinese.com. Through Lux Avenue, we will leverage the Financial Times’ global resources and award-winning glossy ‘How To Spend It’ magazine to bring our readers and clients insightful, high quality content and access to rising trends and leading personalities in the luxury lifestyle sector,” said Angela Mackay, managing director, Asia Pacific, Financial Times.

The FT launched the FT Non-Executive Director Certificate in September 2011 – a formally accredited, post-graduate level qualification and the first of its kind to address the needs of aspiring and existing non executive directors. The six month course has already been well-received with the first three intakes fully-booked.

Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, media editor of the Financial Times, commented: “Emily’s obvious skills, in 140 characters or the best of long-form investigative journalism, will be a powerful addition to the FT’s global media coverage. She brings deep knowledge of the forces in digital media and online advertising that are transforming content and distribution companies old and new. Her appointment underscores the FT’s commitment to producing the most competitive, prescient and valuable coverage, in print and online.”

Now in its seventh year, the 2012 awards attracted 161 entries from 145 financial institutions and 36 non-financial groups from 67 different countries. The entries were received in four categories: Sustainable Bank of the Year, Sustainable Investor of the Year, Sustainable Investment of the Year and Technology in Sustainable Finance. Under Sustainable Bank of the Year, the awards are regionally subdivided for leadership and innovation in Africa/Middle East, Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe.  A separate Sustainable Global Bank of the Year prize is open to institutions with assets of more than $500 billion, substantial operations on at least two continents and more than 20 percent of revenues earned outside the country of incorporation.

This year’s Summit is themed ‘The Lifestyle Revolution’ and will explore the increased intermingling of luxury and lifestyle. Speakers include chairmen, founders and chief executives from some of the world’s most successful luxury businesses, who will discuss the macro-economic factors influencing consumer decisions; what it means when a luxury brand calls itself a lifestyle brand; and how to manage risks associated with brand extension and diversifying from core expertise.

In his new position, Jon will assume responsibility for global digital advertising revenues and the development of new business propositions for FT.com, howtospendit.com and the FT’s mobile products. His role will also involve sourcing key technology and creative partners for the FT as well as working with the FT’s own product development, editorial and operations teams to ensure the optimisation of digital advertising products.

The awards recognise companies and individuals who have stood out for their dedication to innovation and change in the interests of commerce.