bfinance appoints Australian Director

Independently owned investment consultancy bfinance has appointed Frithjof van Zyp as director of bfinance Australia, to lead the company's expansion as it launches its first office in the APAC region.

Frithjof, also known in the industry as Fridge, was previously senior vice-president and head of data services at eVestment, the investment intelligence data firm serving the institutional market.

At bfinance, Fridge's responsibilities will focus on the development of client relationships, engaging with major institutional investors across public and private pension funds, insurers, sovereign wealth funds, family offices and endowments. He will work closely with managing director Pal Sarai and newly hired bfinance adviser Melda Donnelly.

In a statement from the fund, Pal Sarai said: "We are delighted to welcome Fridge to the team as we respond to growing client demand in the Australian market. Fridge's track record in launching international offices and initiating long term relationships with asset owners and investment managers will guide the team and help us continue our fast pace of growth as we see a significant opportunity in the local institutional investment market."

van Zyp said: "The local market is ripe for disruption - now more than ever, Australian asset owners must seek value for money when making investment decisions. They will stand to benefit from bfinance's unique methodology and innovative approach."