Westpac's funds management business BT Investment Management (BTIM) has appointed James Evans as its new chairman after Brian Scullin announced his retirement.
Scullin, who was appointed founding chairman prior to BTIM's listing on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) in 2007, will retire after the company's annual general meeting on 6 December.
Under Scullin's chairmanship BTIM evolved from an Australia-focussed business into a diversified global asset management business with operations in Australia, Europe, the UK, USA and Asia.
Evans, who joined the company board as a non-executive director in 2010 and is the current chairman of the audit and risk management committee, said Scullin had been an outstanding chairman.
"Brian has provided strong leadership and invaluable guidance to both the board and management through a difficult period in financial markets post the global financial crisis and a transformational transaction with the acquisition of J O Hambro Capital Management," Evans said.
"I know I speak for all directors, senior executives and employees of the company, in wishing Brian the very best for his retirement. I am confident that going forward BTIM has the right strategy and management team in place to continue to grow, and I look forward to taking over as Chairman in December."
Evans has 40 years of corporate experience including senior roles within the Commonwealth Bank and Lend Lease Limited.
He is currently a non-executive director of the Equigroup companies, hastings Funds Management, Investa Wholesale Funds Management, Macquarie Generation and Suncorp Portfolio Services.
