The changes promote a more “rapid market-aware” approach and reflect the increasing importance of individual consumers in the retirement savings markets, according to Mercer.
After two years in Mercer’s London office, Russell Clarke will assume the role of chief investment officer, Pacific. Mr Clarke will maintain his global thought leadership responsibilities for the management of Mercer’s Mainstream Asset portfolios.
“[Mr Clarke’s] global experience and insights will position Mercer’s Australian and New Zealand investment portfolios for sustained strong performance outcomes,” said Simon Eagleton, Leader of Mercer’s Investments Business for the Pacific.
Extending his current dynamic asset allocation team leadership role, David Stuart has been named chief strategist for Mercer in the Pacific market. Mr Stuart will take responsibility for the asset allocation positioning for Mercer’s multi-asset class diversified fund range, according to Mercer.
Nick White’s current role as director of consulting will also be extended to cover strategic policy decisions for Mercer’s suite in the Pacific market, which Mercer called “a formalisation of current practice”.
“These changes reflect a strengthened approach to the management of Mercer’s investment portfolios in the Pacific,” Mr Eagleton said. “Under Russell Clarke’s leadership, Dave Stuart and Nick White will work closely with the portfolio management team to drive successful performance outcomes for our clients, both in terms of consistent alpha generation and competitive results,” he added.
Andrew Howard, Asia Pacific CIO, has resigned from Mercer to take on a CIO role with Treasury Group.
