Russell will take over the role from Guardian’s group chief executive David Howell.
Guardian said Russell has been “instrumental” in helping the business build its presence in Europe and that it hopes he will help to do the same in the Middle East.
Vince Jones, chairman of Guardian Wealth Management Qatar, said: “As the senior financial adviser in Qatar, David will become a familiar face to many of our expatriate clients.
"He brings a wealth of experience to the Qatar office as well as a sound legal background which will stand him in very good stead in ensuring the team in Qatar delivers the best in financial advice for our clients.”