Candriam has announced a number of personnel changes to its thematics team, with head of thematic global equity Rudi Van den Eynde set to retire in the first quarter of 2025.
As part of the changes, current deputy head of thematic global equity Johan Van der Biest (pictured) has been appointed as co-head of the team, and will succeed Eynde upon his retirement.
Servaas Michielssens has been named as head of healthcare, responsible for overseeing Candriam’s $4bn (£3.16bn) AUM lifecare strategies. He returns to the firm after 16 months at a private equity firm.
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Meanwhile, Linden Thomson has been appointed as senior fund manager, with a focus on Candriam’s biotech and oncology strategies.
She takes up the role on 19 February, joining from Axa Investment Managers where she led the firm’s biotech strategy and served as head of the healthcare franchise.
Nicolas Forest, CIO of Candriam, said: “We warmly welcome Servaas and Linden to the team. Their proven expertise and track record will further reinforce our leading position in healthcare investing, and their decision to join Candriam highlights the strong capabilities and esteemed reputation Candriam has established in this space. Candriam has long been at the forefront of thematic investment driven by global megatrends, with a successful track record in healthcare for over 20 years.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Rudi for his significant contributions, including pioneering Candriam’s oncology strategy. And extend our congratulations to Johan on his new role, in recognition of the increasing responsibilities and significant contributions he has made over the decades.
“These strategic appointments and transitions ensure continuity, stability, and excellence in fund management across our Thematic Global Equity team. I am confident that new leadership will significantly enhance our capabilities and continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients in such an important space.”
The thematics team manages assets worth $11bn, as of 31 December 2023.
