First Advantage, a Symphony Technology Group (STG) company and the leading global provider of background screening analytics and identity solutions, today announced the expansion of its business into the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The company has opened a new office in Dubai with Vera Gondard appointed as Director of Account Management UAE to head up the operation.

The Dubai office has been created to support First Advantage’s clients in the region as well as to develop new opportunities in the Middle East.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, First Advantage now has a global footprint of 28 offices in 13 countries, employing more than 4,500 staff and serving more than 45,000 clients.

Mark Parise, Chief Executive Officer of First Advantage, comments: “Our investment in this new office recognizes the size and opportunity the Middle East holds. Our existing client base in the region and the potential to grow further make this the perfect time for us to settle in the UAE. We’re pleased to welcome Vera and we’re very excited about the future for First Advantage in the Middle East.”

Vera Gondard comments: “I’m delighted to join a company with the international reputation and ambition that First Advantage has, and to be leading the operation in the UAE. Employers in the region are increasingly aware of the value of background screening in ensuring employees are qualified and safe for the job, and of the potential risks to their businesses of not screening candidates, so the Middle East has huge potential for First Advantage.”

Vera brings nine years of experience in background screening and primary source verification in EMEA, having previously been Vice President of Operations at the screening and compliance services company Dataflow Group. Vera is also trilingual, holds a degree in Public Relations as well as a Six Sigma green belt certification and has broad experience in project management, training and lean transformation.