Credit Suisse splits global equities role

Credit Suisse Asset Management(CSAM) has split the management of its global equities business, appointing former UK-based First State chief investment officer Mark Burgess as co-head of equities.

Burgess will oversee Europe, Asia Pacific, multi-country equity products and balanced portfolios, while US-based equities co-head Greg Sawers, who is also head of global research, will retain responsibility for CSAM’s US portfolio.

Group chairman and global chief executive officer Michael Kenneally says the decision to appoint Burgess into a shared role is consistent with the CSAM’s strategy of strengthening its global equity platform.

“He brings a proven leadership ability necessary to direct a disciplined investment process,” Kenneally says.

Burgess has previously worked in a variety of financial services roles, including a spell with Commonwealth Bank-owned First State that commenced in Melbourne prior to First State’s acquisition by Colonial, before transferring to London where he worked as head of global asset management and chief investment officer.

He has also held executive roles withBT Financial Groupin Australia in addition to stints with American Express Asset Management International and Insight Investments.

Burgess will be based in London where he will report to Kenneally and will join CSAM’s global executive committee.