Standard Life Investments has announced the appointment of Colin Clark as Director - Global Client Group. He has been a non executive Director of Standard Life Investments for over five years, was previously with Merrill Lynch Investment Managers and prior to this with Mercury Asset Management.

Clark will have responsibility for leading Standard Life Investments’ global sales, marketing and business development activity. This will cover all retail and institutional products. The appointment follows an extensive search and selection process and is subject to FSA approval.

Commenting on the appointment Keith Skeoch, CEO, Standard Life Investments, said: “Standard Life Investments has grown very rapidly since its inception in 1998, moving from a UK orientated business to one with truly global ambitions. We have already made great strides towards this with over 80% of our £5.7bn 2009 net third party sales coming from outside the UK.

“Standard Life Investments’ funds have strong long term performance, which spans the depths of the last two bear markets. We have ambitious plans to extend further into retail markets and alternative space and are confident that Colin’s 30 years experience in the industry will help us achieve this as Standard Life Investments continues to expand its global franchise. Colin is a very valuable addition to the Executive team bringing a wide range of skills, knowledge and expertise particularly in the areas of global sales and marketing.”