Asset Value Investors (AVI) has hired Nicola Takada Wood (pictured) as its new head of Japan as the firm puts more resources into developing its Japanese engagement strategy.
Japanese equities have undergone a rally since corporate governance reforms reinvigorated the market last year, with the Nikkei 225 climbing 16.3% over the past two years, and AVI seeks to increase its proficiency in the space.
Wood will be crucial in improving the capabilities of its flagship AVI Japan Opportunity trust, which was up 28.4% amid the rally of the past two years by investing exclusively in smaller companies.
See also: Is China at a turning point, or will it disappoint yet again?
She will also be responsible for the newly-launched AVI Japanese Special Situations, which the firm created in April this year as it bolstered its exposure to the rallying market.
Joe Bauernfreund, CIO of AVI, said: “This is an exciting time for AVI as the level of active engagement in Japan has continued to grow. Japan is changing and we see a highly attractive landscape, with cheap valuations and the continued march of corporate reform.
“I look forward to working with Nicola, a seasoned investment professional. Her deep experience in Japanese equities and commitment to engaging with companies to unlock value align perfectly with AVI’s investment philosophy.”
See also: Chrysalis preps for £100m share buyback with new loan
Wood moves to AVI from Redwheel, where she spent six years as a portfolio manager for the firm’s Nissay Japan Stewardship Strategy.
Previously, Wood had worked in Tokyo as executive director for Japanese equity sales for Mizuho and vice president of Japanese equities sales-trading at Goldman Sachs.
Of her move over to AVI, Wood said: “I am excited to join AVI at such a pivotal time for the firm’s expansion in Japan. I look forward to working with Joe and the talented team of individuals to identify and engage with undervalued opportunities in the Japanese market, continuing AVI’s tradition of active, value-driven investment.”
