Vontobel Adds Muscle in the U.S.

Vontobel’s asset management is adding executive manpower in the U.S., strengthening the platform in the world’s largest market. One of its managers is also taking on more responsibility.

Vontobel Asset Management appointed Thomas Wittwer chief executive officer of the U.S. business, according to a memorandum sent to staff at the Zurich-based company that finews.com has seen. Wittwer will be responsible for the U.S. platform of the so-called Quality Growth Boutique. The unit is one of the most important pillars of Vontobel’s asset management offering and manages $37.4 billion in assets.

Wittwer replaces Philipp Hensler. Hensler was in charge of the U.S. platform since 2014 and decided to leave the bank to pursue a career at another company.

Wittwer is a true veteran at Vontobel, having worked at the Zurich firm for the past three decades. As head of marketing and distribution he played a crucial role in creating the boutique culture playing such an important role at the private bank.

Vontobel also announced the promotion of Charles Falck. Chief operating officer at Vontobel Asset Management in the U.S. since 2013, Falck henceforth will be the COO of Vontobel’s asset management business globally, supporting all its boutiques and regions.

The investment team at Quality Growth Boutique led by CIO Matthew Benkendorf will retain its investment strategy under the new leadership.