The Nasdaq OMX Group, Inc. announced that Jeff Singer, senior vice president, international listings, is leaving his post to become the new chief executive officer of the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX).

Nasdaq owns one third of the DIFX. Its CEO Bob Greifeld is vice chairman of the DFIX board and Nasdaq executive vice president Adena Friedman is also a member of the board. Singer, who will be based in Dubai, will assume the role of CEO, effective immediately, and will join the DIFX board. too.

“Jeff’s appointment marks another important linkage between Nasdaq OMX and DIFX, demonstrating our commitment to this market,” commented Magnus Bocker, president of Nasdaq OMX. “As the CEO of DIFX, I believe that Jeff is well positioned to provide companies in Dubai with the same level of service and leadership which Nasdaq OMX issuers have benefited from, including enhanced visibility, access to capital, and liquidity.”

“I am delighted to be taking on this new opportunity at the DIFX, in a critical region in today’s marketplace. I look forward to further leveraging the Nasdaq OMX and DIFX relationship,” commented Singer.