Albert May is a distinguished financial executive and leader whose 35-year career spans Eastern Europe, Western Europe and Africa, across many industries, and economic cycles. Recognized for his strategic acumen and global outlook, Albert has built a reputation as a transformative figure in investment banking, capital markets, and financial advisory. His professional journey—from leading global banking operations at Citigroup to founding his own boutique advisory firm, EastWest Capital—reflects both his adaptability and his deep commitment to financial excellence and ethical leadership. Today, he stands as a trusted board advisor and chairman, guiding organizations to greater resilience, innovation, and growth in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
Born and educated in Belgium, Albert earned his degree in Applied Economics from the Free University of Brussels, laying the foundation for a career defined by analytical rigor and strategic foresight. Early in his professional life, he joined Continental Bank, where he managed relationships with major European corporations, honing his understanding of finance and international trade. His early success led him to Citibank, where he embarked on a remarkable 27-year tenure that would see him rise to the highest echelons of leadership within one of the world’s foremost financial institutions.
At Citigroup, Albert’s ascent was marked by a series of pivotal leadership roles across Brussels, Paris, Luxembourg, New York, Warsaw, and London. His ability to navigate diverse financial environments and regulatory landscapes made him a critical player in the firm’s global operations. As Vice Chairman and Head of Investment Banking for Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), he oversaw major advisory, M&A, and restructuring mandates for governments, financial institutions, and corporate clients. His stewardship in this region not only expanded Citi’s market share but also positioned the firm as a trusted partner in emerging markets at critical junctures of economic transformation.
Albert’s tenure at Citi was characterized by innovation and results. As Head of Corporate and Investment Banking for Central and Eastern Europe, he led a business unit generating $250 million in revenues and managing $2.5 billion in assets, supported by an 80-person team across ten countries. His leadership extended beyond financial management—he cultivated high-performance teams grounded in accountability, collaboration, and a client-first ethos. His strategic oversight of debt capital markets, corporate finance, and risk management helped clients achieve stability and growth even amid volatile conditions.
After an accomplished global career with Citigroup, Albert transitioned from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship, founding EastWest Capital in 2012. Based in London, EastWest Capital is a boutique investment bank and advisory firm that serves entrepreneurs, family offices, and mid-market corporations across Europe, Central and Eastern Europe, and Africa. Under Albert’s guidance, the firm became a trusted advisor on capital raises, restructurings, and strategic transactions, offering board advisory services that reflect his belief in the value of governance and long-term sustainability. His work bridges East and West—bringing together markets, investors, and opportunities across regions with a human touch and institutional discipline.
In addition to his role at EastWest Capital, Albert serves as Chairman of Banco Best, a digital wealth management bank in Portugal. His leadership there reflects his forward-looking embrace of fintech innovation and his dedication to democratizing access to sophisticated wealth management tools. Albert’s ability to combine traditional banking expertise with the agility of modern financial technology underscores his relevance in a rapidly evolving industry. He has also held board positions with Kardan N.V., an AEX-listed holding company in the Netherlands, and Turkasset-Hayat Varlik in Turkey, where he contributed to the audit and remuneration committees, governance frameworks, and strategic direction.
Albert’s influence extends beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. Throughout his career, he has been a thought partner to entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers, offering insights into global capital flows, risk management, and corporate transformation. His speaking fluency in five languages—English, French, Dutch, Portuguese, and Polish—has allowed him to navigate cross-cultural business environments with grace and precision. His international exposure, covering Europe, Africa, and the USA has shaped his belief that financial leadership requires not only technical mastery but also cultural intelligence and empathy.
What distinguishes Albert May is his holistic view of leadership. He combines analytical rigor with creative problem-solving, balancing data-driven decision-making with an intuitive understanding of people and markets. His colleagues describe him as a strategic architect—a leader who not only envisions pathways to success but also builds the structures and teams to make those visions reality. Whether guiding large-scale transactions or mentoring future leaders, Albert brings authenticity, composure, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Beyond finance, Albert is a man of discipline and curiosity. His interests in sports—tennis, squash, golf, skiing, and jogging—reflect his energetic and balanced approach to life. He also holds certifications in photography and wine studies, symbols of his appreciation for art, culture, and craftsmanship. These pursuits reveal a personality that values precision and perspective, traits that mirror his approach to leadership and business.
Today, as Albert continues to split his time between Lisbon and London, he remains deeply engaged in shaping the next generation of financial and corporate leaders. His career stands as a testament to perseverance, vision, and the power of ethical stewardship in global finance. Whether advising on mergers, restructuring distressed assets, or chairing modern digital banks, he continues to embody the balance of intellect and integrity that defines the world’s most effective leaders.
Character:
Albert May’s career reflects a deep moral compass and commitment to integrity. His leadership is rooted in trust, transparency, and responsibility—values he has upheld consistently across roles, cultures, and industries. He is driven by the belief that financial success must always align with ethical governance and social accountability.
Knowledge:
With over three decades of experience in global banking, Albert possesses a rare depth of expertise across investment banking, capital markets, and corporate strategy. His insights into emerging markets, risk management, and restructuring are both analytical and intuitive, earned through firsthand engagement in dynamic international environments. His mastery of the financial ecosystem enables him to deliver strategic counsel with precision and foresight.
Strategic:
Albert approaches challenges with a visionary mindset, always connecting short-term actions with long-term objectives. He excels in designing frameworks that drive growth, profitability, and sustainability, adapting seamlessly to evolving market realities. His ability to integrate global perspectives into actionable strategies has consistently positioned his teams and clients for enduring success.
Communication:
Fluent in multiple languages and cultures, Albert’s communication style is inclusive, persuasive, and deeply human. He has a unique ability to bridge perspectives, bringing together diverse stakeholders through clarity, empathy, and purpose. Whether negotiating major transactions or mentoring executives, his words inspire confidence and foster collaboration.
