Following an extensive global search process, the asset manager appointed Andrew Gowen to the newly created Australian role.
Gowen brings more than 25 years of experience working in global equities across the UK and US, which includes over 15 years as a portfolio manager.
He joins from Lombard Odier Investment Managers in London where he spent nearly seven years at the company. Gowen co-managed the long-term World Brands Fund with a focus on high-quality, growth stocks.
Prior to this, he held a variety of senior roles throughout London and New York at firms such as Lazard Asset Management, Balyasny Asset Management, and Och-Ziff Capital Management.
Michael Lovett, CEO of Bell Asset Management, said the appointment was part of the firm’s ongoing strategy to drive long-term growth.
“His appointment will enhance our research and portfolio management capabilities to optimise client outcomes, while supporting chief investment officer Ned Bell who has built a resilient and successful global equities capability over 20 years, and whose leadership remains our cornerstone. Our strategy and investment philosophy remain the same, and we’ve retained a loyal pool of talent,” Lovett said.
“Andrew has a strong track record of delivering high alpha, and brings a global network of relationships with top CEOs. In his role as director of research, he will lead efforts to strengthen Bell’s research capabilities and cultivate a high performing team. His role is central to supporting clients with even more in-depth and actionable market analysis.”
Meanwhile, Bell has internally promoted senior global equities analyst Matt Saddington and senior investment strategist Andrew Sleeman to portfolio managers.
The team will transition to a model where each strategy is managed by existing portfolio managers Ned Bell and Joel Connell, alongside a dedicated third co-portfolio manager.
“These strategic decisions will allow us to optimise client outcomes, while ensuring that Bell is well-equipped for future growth and success,” the CIO said.
Moreover, the asset manager confirmed that portfolio manager Adrian Martuccio and senior global equities analyst Nicole Mardell are both set to depart as they pursue external opportunities following the restructure.
Martuccio has been at Bell for over 17 years while Mardell joined 14 years ago.
Bell said: “We sincerely thank Adrian and Nicole for their service and loyalty, and wish them well. Adrian has been a valuable member of the investment team for almost 18 years. He joined the firm when it was a small, two-person boutique with under $500 million in assets under management.
“During his tenure, Adrian has been a key contributor to the asset management business, which has grown to around $5 billion. We acknowledge his significant contribution to consistent client outcomes over the long term, and look forward to following his continued success.”
