Francis brings to the role more than 14 years' experience in consulting, funds management and investment banking.
Prior to this appointment, he was Perpetual Investment general manager of institutional relationships - global equities.
He also previously spent five years at Mercer Investment Consulting where he headed Australian equity research.
The appointment was a big win for Realindex, Colonial First State chief executive Brian Bissaker said.
"Andrew brings with him the right mix of sales and asset management experience to ensure the Realindex business is a success," Bissaker said.
Francis will take up the position in January 2009.
Realindex is a new investment management and distribution subsidiary of Colonial First State, established as part of a strategic alliance with Research Affiliates, which is based in California.
