Jim Leaviss, chief investment officer for M&G Investments’ fixed income division, is leaving the firm. He is replaced by Andrew Chorlton, currently head of fixed income at Schroders.
Leaviss has more than 30 years of industry experience, the last 27 of which have been spent with M&G Investments. Prior to this, he was a gilt market analyst and dealer at the Bank of England. He is leaving the firm to pursue a Master’s degree in the History of Art, which he begins in October.
Beginning later this year, Chorlton will report to Joseph Pinto, CEO of M&G Investments. He has more than 25 years of industry experience, and has spent the last decade with Schroders in London and New York. Before becoming global head of fixed income, Chorlton was head of multi-sector fixed income and fixed income solutions
Earlier in his career, Chorlton was a portfolio manager at Citibank, AXA Investment Managers and STW Fixed Income Management.
On his departure, Leaviss commented: “It’s been a tremendous privilege to work at M&G for almost three decades and lead the team through the growth of bond markets during that time. I’m really proud of our team of fixed income professionals, the talent we’ve developed and what we’ve achieved for clients.
“Our investment range has grown dramatically, of note the launch of the M&G Optimal Income Fund which became one of the largest funds in Europe and our leading European credit capabilities that have an excellent reputation with international clients. I’d like to thank everyone for their support over the years and I am in no doubt that this culture will continue — I wish the team all the best.”
Chorlton stated: “I have long perceived M&G to be one of the leading fixed income managers and a strong competitor throughout my career given its history in the asset class. The team’s presence has been further amplified through their ability to bring bond markets to life and make fixed income engaging through their innovative way of communicating with clients and a wider audience.
“It is an honour to take on this role at a time when investors are increasingly seeking active managers with a global perspective built on a foundation of proprietary research to take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves in the bond market as clients’ need for income continues to grow.”
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