James Langlands

MFS Investment Management (MFS) has announced the appointment of James Langlands as Head of Wholesale, Australia and New Zealand.

James will assume the responsibilities formerly managed by Ross Cartwright, who joined MFS’ Investment Solutions Group in London in October 2021.

James will be responsible for driving the growth of MFS’ Australia and New Zealand wholesale business. He will focus on promoting MFS’ broad range of fixed income and equity capabilities to key accounts, independent financial advisors, private wealth, and research relationships as the firm continues to bring its suite of products and extensive insights to the local market.

With 20 years industry experience, James joins from BNP Paribas Asset Management where he served as Head of Wholesale Distribution. He was responsible for the business development and relationship management activities of that firm’s wholesale client business. Prior to that, he worked at BlackRock as Director, Head of Wealth Advisory, Wholesale. He held several other positions at the same firm over a 15-year period including Director, Institutional Client Business, Co-Head of BlackRock’s Managed Account Service, and other Senior Account Manager roles.

Based in Melbourne, he reports to Marian Poirier, Senior Managing Director, Australia. He will be supported by Anna Martin, who recently took on the role of Associate Director within the client relationship team. The two will work with MFS’ local relationship management and client service team to bolster the firm’s wholesale distribution services and capabilities.

Ms Poirier said, ’James’ knowledge and understanding of the distribution landscape evolving across the region is exceptional, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the team. This is an important hire for our business and reinforces our commitment to serving wholesale clients across the region with best-in-class investment solutions. This is underpinned by our company-wide focus on sustainability.’

MFS has an established presence in the Australian and New Zealand wholesale market, currently offering eight Australian Unit Trust funds to wholesale and advisor-directed investors across the region, recently adding MFS Global New Discovery Trust, which targets global small-cap opportunities. The firm also offers its global range of investment strategies to institutional investors.

Commenting on his appointment, James said, ’I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to lead and contribute to MFS’ growth in this market at this pivotal time. I look forward to working with the team, strategically expanding the client base and developing deep relationships with clients and prospects looking for long-term investment solutions.’

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