US-ASEAN Business Council Bolsters Singapore Regional HQ Presence with Dr. James Andrade as First Singapore-Based Chief Country Representative

(Singapore) – The US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. James Andrade as its first Singapore based Chief Country Representative, an appointment that underscores USABC’s commitment to growing its presence in Asia from its regional headquarters in Singapore.

In this newly established role, Dr. Andrade will lead USABC’s engagements across Singapore, working with Singapore government officials, ​ member companies, and ASEAN stakeholders to deepen economic and trade relationships. In addition, he will serve as a Senior ASEAN Advisor, providing guidance across the region as USABC continues to expand its advocacy and industry programming throughout Southeast Asia.

“Dr. Andrade’s extensive experience in business and in the region will be instrumental in elevating USABC’s impact from our Singapore hub,” said Ambassador Ted Osius (ret.), President & CEO of the US-ASEAN Business Council. “His appointment signals a strategic step forward as we strengthen our regional operations and provide enhanced support to U.S. businesses in ASEAN.”

Dr. Andrade commented, “I’m honored to be the first to hold this position. Singapore has long been a cornerstone in U.S.-ASEAN relations, and I look forward to working with the Council’s members and ASEAN partners to advance economic collaboration and regional integration.”

Dr. Andrade brings over 20 years of experience in ASEAN regional affairs, previously serving in senior advisory roles at both government and private sector institutions. He has led economic and policy initiatives across Southeast Asia, focused on trade facilitation, innovation ecosystems, and sustainable development, and has worked extensively across the consumer goods industry in the private sector.

Prior to this appointment, Dr. Andrade served as head of the Catapult Executive Leadership & Innovation Institute at Capitaland, where he spearheaded programs to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, tech-driven growth, and leadership capacity-building. He also served as Chair of the American Chamber of Commerce from 2014-2016 sitting on their board from 2011-2017.

Dr. Andrade’s hiring complements USABC’s ongoing senior leadership transition. He will report to Amb. Ted Osius, who will relocate to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in the capacity of SVP and Regional Managing Director, while Amb. Brian McFeeters will relocate to Washington DC to serve as ​ interim President & CEO. These changes will be effective from July 2025 onward.