Zenith chief steps down: Switches jobs

Zenith chief switches jobs
After 20 years at the helm, then chief executive of Zenith Investment Partners will step down from the top job and take on the role of investment director.

At the end of the year, Wright will hand the reins to Jason Huddy who joined Zenith as chief operating officer in 2019.

The outgoing chief executive called the decision to step down "logical, pragmatic and the right one for the business".

Wright said the acquisition of the broader Zenith business by FE fundinfo in 2021, meant moving into the Australian CEO role.

"While the new responsibilities that came with the acquisition have been a fantastic opportunity for me personally it has changed the nature of my working day," he said on LinkedIn.

Stepping back has allowed him to focus on areas of the business which he is " really passionate about" which s working directly with clients and staff.

"I'm genuinely looking forward to remaining with the business and using my extensive fund research and portfolio management experience to support the portfolio solutions, research and sales teams to deliver on their client service responsibilities.

Wright said it was time to 'pass the baton' to Huddy given his time with the business and strong understanding of Zenith's operations and client base.

"I'm confident our clients, stakeholders and staff will be in good hands under his leadership. I believe that the business requires an experienced, strategic leader and Jason is that leader," he said.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported me and the business over the past 20 years to this point. It's been one hell of a ride, and I've really enjoyed the journey. I'm looking forward to what lies ahead."

Wright will remain on the local board and executive team.

The incoming chief executive's career started with National Mutual. He then spent over 16 years with Macquarie, including three years leading its banking and financial services business in the UK, before then moving to NAB Capital Markets, NAB Asset Management and finally a Melbourne-based boutique funds manager.

Huddy pointed out that Zenith's fund research and managed account capabilities have significantly expanded to include the super research services of Chant West, and the data and technology capabilities of its parent company, FE fundinfo.

"We continue to be an ambitious company for our clients and staff and I look forward to continuing the client-focused growth that David and the team have achieved to date," Huddy said.

Wright co-founded Zenith in 2002.