Colonial investment executive to step aside
ColonialFirst Statehas announced a key change within its funds management division with its long-serving head of the Australian equities GDP plus team Ian Harding scheduled to step aside in January to take up an advisory role.
Harding will be replaced by senior portfolio manager Simon Shields, with Colonial First State Australian Equities core team senior portfolio manager Simon Hudson assuming responsibility for the portfolios run by Harding.
Colonial general manager investments David Dixon says although Harding will no longer be involved in day-to-day portfolio management, he will continue to work in an advisory capacity until the end of next year to ensure a seamless transition.
Dixon says Shields’ credentials make him the logical replacement for Harding, particularly his “deep knowledge of the GDP plus investment process and an impressive track record since his entry into the funds management industry”.
Dixon says that Hudson joined the Australian equities GDP plus team with over 15 years experience in the investment management industry and 10 years experience with the Australian Equities core team.
He adds Martin Littler will continue to head the Australian equities core team and will take on Hudson’s portfolio management responsibilities.
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