Xylem Inc. (NYSE: XYL), a leading global water technology company, has announced the appointment of Francis (Frank) Ackland as the Regional Managing Director for the Middle East, and the repositioning of Vincent Chirouze as the Regional Managing Director for Africa. Francis and Vincent are expected to play a pivotal role in reinforcing Xylem’s presence and position in both markets.

The realignment of the Middle East and Africa region into two separate business operating regions comes as part of Xylem’s growth strategy of strengthening its leadership position across emerging markets.

Frank Ackland joins Xylem with over 20 years of experience in the region and will be instrumental in leveraging growth opportunities and expanding the business in the Middle East. Prior to joining Xylem he held the position of Regional Managing Director, Middle East at Eaton, overseeing the electrical business. He has previously worked in regional roles at GE, Alstom and Areva. “I am delighted to join Xylem, with which I share its vision of solving global water issues and contributing to the sustainability agenda.” Said Frank Ackland. “Besides having a broad-range of solutions addressing the entire cycle of water and focus on sustainable infrastructure development, Xylem’s corporate citizenship is making a social difference at global scale”.  Frank also pointed out the excellent work the team has done to date with establishing Xylem’s regional presence and manufacturing capabilities; something which he looks to leverage further to deliver value-added products and services to regional customers.

Vincent Chirouze will focus his efforts on expanding Xylem’s business in Africa and penetrating growth opportunities across the continent. He has previously held various leadership positions in Africa and and looks forward to again relocating to the continent.

Speaking about his new role in Xylem, Vincent said: “I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude to my team and business partners for their continuous support and cooperation. I look forward to moving back to Africa and work cosely with our local teams in delivering superior water solutions and applications knowledge to our customers across Africa.”