Hamilton Lane expands into Australia and names head

US-based alternative investment management firm, Hamilton Lane, has formally expanded into Australia with the appointment of James Martin to service its growing client base and lead the firm's new Sydney office, effective July 2017.

Prior to Hamilton Lane, Martin spent more than five years with Partners Group, where he focused on institutional sales and deal origination. Previously, he was an associate director of institutional business at Pinnacle Investment Management, and prior to that spent more than nine years at Macquarie Group.

Commenting on Hamilton Lane's expansion, CEO Mario Giannini said: "We've been active in this region for nearly a decade, and are excited to be formally establishing a presence in Australia. We believe this expansion will allow us to provide a deeper level of market coverage and client service and we're pleased to welcome James, who brings a strong understanding of the local market dynamics, challenges and opportunities."

Martin added: "I am quite glad to be joining the team, and believe that Hamilton Lane's extensive experience investing in private markets throughout the world is particularly valuable to Australian investors."