Global X ETFs has announced the appointment of former Goldman Sachs Asset Management’s global ETF product lead, Ryan O’Connor, as CEO, effective 8 April.
At Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM), Mr O’Connor was responsible for leading all aspects of its ETF product platform. Before this, he spent over a decade at State Street Global Advisors.
In his new capacity, Mr O’Connor will be responsible for driving the firm’s strategy, “energising” its product suite, and leading the company into its next “growth-focused era”, according to the ETF provider.
Founder of Global X parent company Mirae Asset Financial Group, Hyeon-Joo Park, said: “Mirae Asset continues to view Global X as an innovator and a critical part of its growth and success. It’s our desire to take Global X from a rising star to a clear-cut leader in the ETF industry.”
“Over the past few months, we’ve kicked off a journey to strategically reposition the firm in order to jumpstart momentum and accelerate the business. By doing so, Global X has renewed agility, a re-focus on its core competencies and a clear emphasis on its client base. Now is the right time to bring in new leadership.”
Global X had been without a permanent CEO since Luis Berruga stepped down from the position in November 2023 after serving five years in the role. Co-CEO of Mirae Asset Global Investments, Thomas Parks, had been leading the firm on an interim basis.
As such, Mr Park said that Mr O’Conner will help take the business to the “next level”.
“Ryan has a notable track record of driving growth across the ETF value chain for the world’s largest asset managers. He is eager to bring his ETF industry experience and strategic, growth-oriented mindset to Global X,” he concluded.
Late last year, the ETF provider outlined its plan to expand its market share over the next two years.
In December, and 18 months after first entering the Australian market, Global X declared its intention to chase down local competitors in a bid to reach $10 billion in assets under management (AUM) by the end of 2025.
