Private markets expert to run S64

London-based alternative and technology firm S64 has appointed former Schroders and JP Morgan Asset Management executive to lead its antipodean operations.

David Hallifax - who has been appointed head of Australia and New Zealand - brings two decades of private markets experience to the firm.

Halifax most recently spent almost ten years at JP Morgan Asset Management, a role which saw him establish and build the wholesale channel and successfully launch private markets into the private wealth segment.

Prior to this, he held senior leadership roles at Schroders and AMP Capital Investors.

The appointment represents the latest in a series of strategic hires amid rising demand for private markets products across Europe and Asia Pacific.

Further, it follows the recruitment of Hiroaki Ohhigashi as head of Japan in June reflecting S64's ambition to capture opportunities across the region.

The region represents a significant driver of growth as S64 continues to develop its private markets and technology solutions offering to wealth managers, private banks and asset managers.

S64 founder and chief executive Tarun Nagpal said Hallifax is charged with establishing a critical presence in Australia and New Zealand and bringing the firm's existing offering to a new level.

"His invaluable experience and skillset will be an asset as we continue to offer our clients industry-leading alternative platforms and solutions. Australia and New Zealand are strategic markets for S64 where we expect to significantly bolster our presence over the coming months"

Hallifax added: "I am delighted to be joining S64 as the business embarks on an exciting period of global growth.

"We are seeing increasing interest in the private markets arena in Australia and New Zealand and S64 is well-positioned to tap into these opportunities with tailored local solutions."