Nikko AM Australia fixed income head moves into global role amid restructure

Nikko AM Australia has announced the integration of the firm's global fixed income teams, with the Australian fixed income team set to be merged with the firm's London-based global fixed income team.

The decision comes following the recent news that Suncorp, former parent company of what is now Nikko AM Australia, has decided to reshape its investment strategy and operating model.

As part of the restructure, James Alexander, currently Australian head of fixed income, will relocate to Singapore to join the firm's global multi-asset team.

Alexander joined Nikko AM Australia, then Tyndall Asset Management, in June 2013 as deputy head of fixed income. In February 2014 he was promoted to Australian head of fixed income. Prior to his time with Nikko AM, he held fixed income roles at Redpoint and AllianceBernstein.

Commenting on Alexander's new role, Nikko AM Australia managing director, Sam Hallinan, said: "James has proven to be both solutions and client oriented. His move to Singapore reflects our strategic focus on providing global investment solutions."

In other changes, John Sorrell and Leo Leslie will join the global credit division of the global fixed income team, and Darren Langer and Chris Rands will join its rates division and will maintain primary responsibility for the Australian fixed income and insurance assets.

Nikko AM has also announced the appointment of Andre Severino as sole head of global fixed income, based in the firm's London office, with responsibility for 13 investment professionals across both London and Sydney.

The restructure will see two analysts and one portfolio manager leave the Australian team. Nikko AM did not wish to make any further comments on these departures.