Franklin Templeton appoints Tariq Ahmad as new head of Asia distribution

FRANKLIN Templeton has appointed Tariq Ahmad, chief executive of Brandywine Global Investment Management, as its new head of Asia distribution.

In his new role, Mr Tariq will provide executive oversight of sales, marketing and product strategy efforts across Asia (excluding Japan, India and mainland China), Franklin Templeton said in an announcement on Wednesday.

He will provide strategic direction on product innovation and customised investment solutions to cater to shifting client needs in Asia. He will also continue to support distribution efforts to deepen and enhance relationships with key Asian retail and institutional clients.

Mr Tariq has been at Brandywine Global Investment Management, a specialist investment manager of Franklin Templeton, since 2017, serving first as its Asia head and then doubling up as chief executive.

Previously, he was chief executive and partner at investment firm Rogge Global Partners Asia in Singapore, overseeing business development and client service for Asia Pacific and the Middle East (2014-2016), and prior to that, a generalist portfolio manager covering the two regions for Rogge Global Partners Plc based in London (2012-2014).

"With more than 18 years of experience, he is an industry veteran with a successful track record of leading investment businesses in Asia," Franklin Templeton said in its announcement.

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Based in Singapore, Mr Tariq will report to head of Asia Pacific Vivek Kudva, who will continue to provide overall strategic direction and focus on growing, consolidating and diversifying Franklin Templeton's business by geography, client type and strategy in the Asia Pacific region.

"Asia has the fastest growing pool of assets, and we will focus on maximising opportunities to ensure that Franklin Templeton is well positioned and becomes the go-to partner for our clients," Mr Tariq said.

"The acquisition of Legg Mason in 2020 has given Franklin Templeton an increased competitive advantage in the Asia market, greatly expanding our product offerings for clients."

His current role at Brandywine Global (Asia) will be assumed by John Tsao, director at Brandywine Global and former chief executive of Brandywine Global (Asia). Mr Tariq will continue to serve an advisory role with Brandywine Global.