Threadneedle has begun a programme of expansion in its Asian operation with the relocation of Head of Asian Distribution, William Lowndes to Hong Kong and the hire of Jon Allen as Deputy Head of Asian Distribution, based in Singapore.

The Asian market represents a significant opportunity for Threadneedle and to reflect the strategic importance of this region William Lowndes will move from London to Hong Kong to lead the team and Threadneedle’s expansion in the region. As Head of Asian Distribution William will lead business development and take specific responsibility for growing Threadneedle’s strategic partnerships, with distributors including Standard Chartered Bank and Tokio Marine, whilst continuing to work closely with private and commercial banks, family offices and institutional clients.

Jon Allen joins Threadneedle with 20 years of asset management experience in Hong Kong, Dubai, London and Singapore working for global financial institutions including Prudential Asset Management, PRUMPIM and the Royal & Sun Alliance Group. Before joining Threadneedle he spent the last two years as CEO and shareholder of Asian distressed debt businesses Carnelian Capital and Obverse Capital. Prior to this he was CEO - Asia Pacific and Member of the Board of PRUPIM (Singapore), where Jon was responsible for the start-up build of the Asia-Pacific property investment business to excess of US$1.5bn AUM. Jon had overall responsibility for delivery of the strategic objectives of the company as well as managing its key investor and partner relationships.

Commenting on the move William Lowndes said: “Since opening our first office in Asia in 2008 we have seen strong growth in the appetite for our funds amongst Asian based investors. We feel that due to the strength and performance of Threadneedle’s business in Europe it is now an ideal time to accelerate our efforts and make a significant investment in the Asia region. In recognition of this I am delighted to be relocating indefinitely to Hong Kong to further develop our business on the ground and to have secured the support of Jon Allen to lead our operation in Singapore and to assist me with expansion in the region. Jon has an enviable track record of developing client relationships and growing businesses, I am excited about the potential for Threadneedle in Asia.”

William will relocate permanently to Hong Kong from 1st April and Jon Allen joined Threadneedle on 25th January.

James Campion, who previously headed Threadneedle’s Hong Kong office will be leaving the firm to pursue other interests.