Greg Guyett: A Global Banking Leader and First Vice President of EBRD
In the world of international finance and banking, few names stand out as strongly as Greg Guyett. With more than three decades of experience across major financial institutions and corporations, Guyett has built a reputation as a visionary leader, strategist, and global banking executive. His career trajectory spans influential positions at J.P. Morgan, HSBC, Johnson Controls, East West Bank, and most recently, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
From his educational roots at Princeton University to his leadership roles across Asia, Europe, and North America, Greg Guyett’s professional journey is a reflection of global finance’s evolution over the past 40 years.
Early Life and Education
Greg Guyett laid the foundation for his career with an Art & Archaeology degree from Princeton University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 1985. While his academic background may seem unconventional for a financial executive, it equipped him with analytical, cultural, and critical thinking skills that later proved valuable in navigating international business environments.
Career Beginnings at J.P. Morgan
Building Foundations in New York
Guyett began his career at J.P. Morgan in 1985, entering the world of investment banking, mergers and acquisitions, and real estate. Over the next 29 years, he worked his way up through numerous senior roles, gaining deep exposure to corporate banking, capital markets, and advisory services.
Leadership Roles Across Asia and Europe
His leadership at J.P. Morgan reflected the bank’s global reach. From 1998 to 2000, he was a Managing Director in Chicago, working on investment banking coverage. Later, he took on more specialized roles, including:
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Head of Global Automotive Investment Banking (2001–2007), advising automotive and industrial clients worldwide.
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CEO of J.P. Morgan Japan (2007–2010), where he managed all operations in Japan.
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CEO of the Global Corporate Bank (2009–2013), building and running the bank’s global corporate banking platform.
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CEO of Greater China (2013–2014), responsible for one of the fastest-growing financial regions.
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Head of Investment Banking Asia Pacific (2014–2015), guiding strategic initiatives across Asia.
His long tenure at J.P. Morgan positioned him as one of the most seasoned executives in cross-border finance and corporate banking.
Transition to Johnson Controls and East West Bank
After nearly three decades at J.P. Morgan, Greg Guyett broadened his leadership scope outside the banking sector. In 2015, he became Executive Vice President at Johnson Controls, focusing on corporate development. This move showcased his ability to navigate both industrial and financial landscapes.
In 2016, he returned to the banking industry as President and Chief Operating Officer of East West Bank, based in Pasadena, California. Over nearly two years, he strengthened operations and reinforced the bank’s position as a bridge between the U.S. and Asia.
Rise at HSBC
Head of Global Banking
In October 2018, Guyett joined HSBC in London as Head of Global Banking. His leadership quickly influenced the bank’s client strategy and international expansion.
Co-CEO and CEO of Global Banking & Markets
By March 2020, he had advanced to Co-CEO of Global Banking & Markets, a division that oversees some of HSBC’s most significant global financial operations. In October 2022, he became the CEO of Global Banking & Markets, holding the role until late 2024.
Chair of Strategic Clients
In December 2024, Greg Guyett transitioned into the role of Chair of Strategic Clients, based in Washington, D.C. His focus was on strengthening HSBC’s relationships with its most important institutional partners and clients before leaving the bank in mid-2025.
Appointment at EBRD
In September 2025, Greg Guyett began a new chapter as First Vice President at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). Based in London, he now leads the institution’s client services, supporting banking operations, policy partnerships, and advisory functions.
This appointment marked his transition from global private banking leadership to an influential role in an international development bank, reflecting his ability to adapt and guide financial systems at both corporate and multilateral levels.
Leadership Style and Contributions
Visionary in Global Banking
Greg Guyett is widely recognized for his strategic vision, cross-cultural management skills, and ability to lead diverse teams across continents. His experience in Asia Pacific, Greater China, Europe, and North America gives him unique insights into global financial markets.
Building Institutions
At J.P. Morgan, he was instrumental in building the Global Corporate Bank, a platform that continues to serve multinational corporations worldwide. At HSBC, he guided the bank through transformations in its Global Banking & Markets division.
Adaptability Across Sectors
Few executives have navigated both the industrial sector and global banking with equal confidence. His time at Johnson Controls and East West Bank proved his ability to adapt leadership strategies beyond traditional investment banking.
Personal Traits and Education Influence
While his degree in Art & Archaeology may appear unusual in the financial industry, it highlights a crucial trait: the ability to think beyond conventional boundaries. His background reflects a blend of creativity and analysis, which has helped him manage complex financial and organizational challenges.
His career demonstrates that success in banking is not limited to those with finance-specific degrees, but also to those who bring diverse perspectives to the table.
Greg Guyett’s Legacy in Finance
Global Impact
Spanning nearly 40 years, Greg Guyett’s career illustrates the globalization of finance. He has been at the center of economic growth in Asia, capital markets development in Europe, and corporate expansion in North America.
Mentor and Leader
As a leader, he has mentored future banking executives and guided organizations through transformative times, including post-financial crisis growth, globalization of corporate banking, and technological transitions in finance.
Conclusion
Greg Guyett stands as one of the most accomplished banking executives of his generation. From his early days at J.P. Morgan to his transformative leadership at HSBC and his latest role as First Vice President of EBRD, his career reflects adaptability, vision, and a deep understanding of international finance.
His professional journey underscores the importance of resilience, lifelong learning, and global perspective in today’s interconnected financial world. With decades of experience across continents and industries, Greg Guyett continues to shape the future of banking and development finance on the global stage.
