In a significant corporate development, the chief executive of FTSE 100 events and publishing powerhouse Informa has officially changed his tax residency to the United Arab Emirates. Stephen Carter, who has led the company since 2019, made the strategic move as Informa continues to expand its footprint across Middle Eastern markets.
The relocation comes at a pivotal moment for the business information giant, which has been aggressively growing its operations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh. Industry analysts view this as a clear signal of the company's commitment to capitalising on the booming events market in the Gulf region.
Strategic Alignment with Growth Markets
Carter's decision to establish UAE residency aligns perfectly with Informa's ambitious growth strategy in the Middle East. The company has been rapidly scaling its operations across the region, with numerous high-profile events and conferences scheduled throughout 2024.
The timing of this move is particularly noteworthy, coming as Informa prepares to host several major industry events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This strategic positioning allows the CEO to be closer to key growth markets while optimising the company's international tax structure.
Corporate Governance and Leadership Continuity
Informa has emphasised that Carter remains fully committed to his leadership role and will maintain his operational base in London for significant portions of the year. The company's board has fully endorsed the relocation, recognising the commercial benefits of having senior leadership closely connected to emerging growth markets.
This development follows a broader trend of international business leaders establishing presence in the UAE, drawn by its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and growing status as a global commerce hub.
The move underscores the shifting dynamics of global business leadership, where proximity to growth markets increasingly influences executive residency decisions. As Informa continues to expand its international footprint, Carter's relocation positions the company for stronger engagement with Middle Eastern partners and clients.
