A BOLTON-based entrepreneur has been appointed as a new senior advisor to an Emirati sheikh.

Asad Shamim, founder and chief executive of Furniture in Fashion, an online retailer, has taken up the role as an advisor to Sheikh Mohamed Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, a member of the UAE’s ruling family.

The sheikh established a private office to explore potential business opportunities globally.

Asad said he was approached following his interest in business and his help assisting entrepreneurs.

Situated in a three-and-a-half acre site in Farnworth, Furniture in Fashion sells everything from sofas to TV stands

The business was established by Mr Shamim in 2007 when he realised how the internet would revolutionise the way people shop.

Speaking on his new appointment, Asad said: “Our private office is constantly looking at market trends for a variety of projects that may fit our aims and goals to ensure profits.

“We aim to attract smart, intelligent and ambitious business projects, thoroughly evaluate their market potential and comprehensively assess their potential and risk.

“Projects will be carefully selected through vigorous​ investment analysis.”

The sheikh’s private office is a business conglomerate in the United Arab Emirates owned by the Emirati royal and its aim is to support local and international companies to successfully launch and maintain their businesses in the UAE and the GCC region. It also looks to support innovation outside of the UAE.

Asad added: “Upon the completion of our review and approval process, the appropriate procedures will be initiated by a team of experienced executive personnel, who will serve to provide all business project receivables and deliverables.

“We also look to invest and offer JV’s (joint ventures) outside of the UAE on projects that bring a reasonable return on investment and come in as a potential lender.”