Former global fund manager head Ian Manton-Hall has picked up a senior role at a multi-boutique asset manager, which is making its first foray into the Australian market.

Manton-Hall has been appointed as the director of Hermes Fund Managers Australia.

Hermes Fund Managers (Hermes) is the principal investment manager for the BT Pension Scheme (BTPS), which has announced plans to open the Sydney office that Manton-Hall will head up.

"Ian Manton-Hall's appointment further consolidates our global expansion. Ian's track record is excellent and we have every confidence that he will lead our Australian offering to great success," Hermes chief executive Rupert Clarke said.

Prior to his appointment, Manton-Hall was the chief executive at Fortis Investment Management (previously ABN Amro Asset Management), where he was responsible for all aspects of the Australian business.

He departed after Fortis Investment Management merged globally with BNP Paribas Investment Partners.

He has also had senior roles at Prudential Corporation and William H Mercer.

Manton-Hall said the fund manager will target superannuation funds and other institutional investors in Australia.

"Having the BTPS as owner of Hermes and a key investor in strategies of the Hermes boutique demonstrates significant commitment, and alignment with clients and prospects," he said.

Hermes' areas of expertise include alternative strategies, such as fund-of-hedge funds, global credit, global equity and European equity, as well as emerging markets. It has $40.6 billion in funds under management.

BTPS is the 100 per cent owner of Hermes.