Platypus names chief executive

Platypus Asset Management has appointed long-serving portfolio manager Jelena Stevanovic chief executive, replacing Gary Adamson who will retire.

Stevanovic joined the asset manager as a senior equities analyst in 2008 before managing the firm's flagship equities fund eight years later.

Platypus chair, Geoff Black said the incoming chief executive is a valued and respected leader in the Platypus business.

"Her understanding of, and contribution to, Platypus' people-centred and collegiate culture has been well received by staff and clients.

"Jelena is uniquely placed to build on Platypus' strong track record ... and we look forward to watching her positively shape the business in future."

Stevanovic said she is excited by the prospect of leading Platypus' next growth phase.

In the meantime, Black thanked Adamson for his 'exceptional leadership and vision" since joining the company as chief operating officer in 2003.

Before that, Adamson spent 11 years as a foreign exchange director with the ANZ and six years with Credit Suisse in the same role.

Before landing at Platypus, Adamson worked at Rhiacourt, the Melbourne-based fund manager.

"Over this time, Platypus has grown from managing $40 million in assets in 2003 to some $5 billion in assets and funds under advice on behalf of some of Australia's largest institutions and super funds," Black said.

Stevanovic noted Platypus' strong performance track record, its talented and diverse team and client-first culture.

"I am very much looking forward to building on these successful foundations to deliver superior outcomes for a broader range of investors into the future," she said.

With Stevanovic's appointment, equities analyst Stephen Butel is now portfolio manager.

He joined the firm seven years ago from Pacific Road Capital Management

In February, the fund appointed Wade Martin as its new chief risk officer, hiring from Cbus.