Press Release

HSBC business solutions group focuses specifically on the business-to-business financing needs of North American companies that operate through distributorships, catalogs, Internet and traditional retail stores. HSBC’s proprietary commercial platform is designed to deliver a successful credit program for its business clients, which include premier companies such as Best Buy, CompUSA, Costco, Menards and Sony.

In his new role, Zempel will strategically direct and manage HSBC business solutions’ business-to-business financing programs. He will report directly to Sandy Derickson, vice chairman of Household International.

"Brian will be instrumental in leading HSBC business solutions in its business development and growth," said Derickson. "His leadership and financial services expertise will guide the business solutions group in meeting the financial needs of our business customers."

"Our goal is to develop and manage innovative credit programs that generate real sales opportunities and create a competitive advantage for our partners," said Zempel. "By managing credit risk and reducing operation costs, we help our clients improve their bottom line, while serving the needs of their business customers."

Zempel brings more than 15 years of experience in financial services including financial analysis, merchant funding and customer service. He began his career with HSBC (formerly Household International) in 1989 and was instrumental in assisting several Household business units in their business development and planning activities. In 1997, Zempel joined Household’s retail services group where he led the startup of the company’s Jacksonville operations center in Florida.

Prior to his present assignment, Zempel served as national director of business performance for the company’s consumer lending business, and as quality leader for its retail services group, where he championed more than 50 Six Sigma projects.

Zempel received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Texas Christian University in 1987 and his master’s degree in business administration from DePaul University in 1991.

About HSBC – North America

HSBC - North America comprises HSBC’s U.S. and Canadian businesses, including Household International. HSBC’s businesses in North America serve more than 60 million customers in five key areas: personal financial services, consumer finance, commercial banking, private banking, and corporate investment banking and markets. Financial products and services are offered under the HSBC, Household, HFC and Beneficial brands. For more information, visit: www.us.hsbc.com, www.hsbc.ca and www.household.com.

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For more information, contact:

Kathleen Morrison,
HSBC - North America
847-564-6111
kamorrison@household.com