The newly created role of head of EMEA consultant relationships has been taken on by Chris Gower. Previously, he was head of European consultant relations at HSBC Global Asset Management. His role at the company will primarily involve the growth of the firm’s franchise and bringing greater coordination and structure to the firm’s dealings with consultants across the region. He reports to Kanesh Lakhani, head of distribution for EMEA and global consultant relationships.
Alex Mackenzie Smith, who had been working for First State in a consulting capacity, has been appointed to the newly created position of business development director for Europe. He will also be responsible for developing new client relationships in Europe.
Finally, Andrew Ward has been appointed to the newly created position of distribution manager and will also be reporting to Kanesh Lakhani. Having been with the firm for over a year, he will now be responsible for coordinating First State’s client engagement across the wholesale and institutional markets.
In addition to these appointments, First State plans to open an office in Dubai in 2014. Ali Karmali will relocate from London to Dubai to continue in his new role as head of Middle East and Africa.
“In 2014 we will continue to engage with existing clients on our First State Stewart Strategies, and at the same time introduce clients to our infrastructure, fixed income, property securities and multi asset solution capabilities,” according to Kanesh Lakhani, head of distribution, EMEA and global consultant relationships.
