New Head of Australia for Principal Global Investors

Principal Global Investors has appointed Helen de Mestre as the firm's new head of Australia.

De Mestre, who is a 14-year veteran of Principal, previously served as a managing director, leading relationship management for the firm.

Commenting on her appointment, Kirk West, executive director of International business and clients, said: "Helen brings rich knowledge and experience to her new role as head of Australia. She has spent her career working directly with clients to help them achieve their investment objectives."

De Mestre succeeds Grant Forster, who is departing Principal after 12 years of "successfully steering the Australian business and positioning it for the next phase of its growth," the firm said.