Chief Executive Officer, Pacific Basin Economic Council (PBEC), Hong Kong
An award-winning seasoned senior executive who was recently appointed the new Chief Executive of Pacific Basin Economic Council (PBEC). Michael Walsh advocates the economic benefits of professional networking, responsible business, fair trade, and a friendly regulatory environment for companies in the APAC region. He believes in win-win benefits from the reduction of barriers to entry and tariffs, encouragement of foreign investment, and environmental protection.
Walsh sold his award-winning business aviation company Asia Jet to a subsidiary of HNA Group in 2016 called Hongkong Jet. He thoroughly enjoys creating private-public partnership opportunities for investors, whilst connecting decision-makers, influencers, and Government officials with business leaders to achieve meaningful and mutual goals. He believes in collaborative efforts to improve the environment of how to conduct responsible & sustainable business.
In November 2014, he joined the AsBAA – Asian Business Aviation Association board as a volunteer. Under his leadership and guidance, the value proposition of AsBAA was developed and it earned global recognition by Air Transport Government-related Agencies and other international trade bodies. One of his most recent achievements was creating the annual Icons of Business Aviation, Annual Awards Asia, and charity gala dinner in Hong Kong which has raised over USD165,000 in donated funds for Orbis Charity since its inception 4 years ago and has become the must-attend event of the entire industry in the region.
His passion extends to youth engagement and the next generation of talent through the creation of the AsBAA Student Discovery program which has hosted several thousand students from across the region over the past 4 years, to educate young people about Business and General Aviation and its benefits. He has worked diligently with several Government Agencies and Airport Authorities to advocate for new infrastructure to accommodate the future of general and business aviation across Asia.
Walsh holds a Master’s Degree in Finance & Accounting and a Master of Science Degree in Economics. He is a Part Qualified Management Accountant and a Graduate of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. He is an active member of AMCHAM, BRITCHAM & the Irish Chambers in HK.