Franklin Templeton hires strategist

Franklin Templeton has added Benjamin Abell to its Australian leadership team to oversee product strategy.

Abell joins from Colonial First State where he held senior roles across product and distribution for 15 years

Most recently he served as executive director of superannuation and strategy.

Franklin Templeton managing director and head of Australia and New Zealand Felicity Walsh said Abell joins when the business is increasing the number of investment teams, particularly in the alternatives space.

"We are working collaboratively with clients across market segments to build solutions to meet their objectives and Ben's knowledge of the advice market, leadership skills and strategic thinking provide us with valuable experience to keep pace with our clients' needs.

Abell added: "The firm is highly regarded in the market and is recognised for the scale, experience, resources and choice it provides investors across retail, wholesale and institutional markets."

"I look forward to working closely with the firm's specialist investment managers, who are acknowledged in the Australian market for their focus on helping clients diversify exposures, manage risk, access liquidity and deploy innovative income strategies," he said.