Mr Mao has worked in the investment industry for over 14 years, working with Willis Towers Watson in both Shanghai and Australia.
The appointment comes as Mr Mao’s former co-head of the Australian equities team, Ben Griffiths, moves to T-Corp.
Willis Towers Watson head of investment Martin Goss said Mr Mao’s extensive experience working with the firm, as well as his earlier role with Bank of America, placed him in a good position to fill the role.
“Leslie has a wealth of experience, having also been a member of our Asia Portfolio Construction Group and Greater China equities manager research team,” Mr Goss said.
“His team will continue to provide strong coverage for this asset class.”
Mr Mao said he was looking forward to taking over as the head of the Australian equities team, and was eager to work further with the team.
“I’ve been co-head of this team with Ben for the past five months and I’m excited at the prospect of leading a group of people of this calibre,” he said.
“Between us we have over 22 years of experience in Australian equities research and knowing the context for individual client portfolios.”
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