Columbia Threadneedle Investments, a leading global asset management group, has appointed Glen Giddings, head of institutional, Australia and New Zealand.

Giddings reports to Jon Allen, head of distribution, Asia Pacific, and will be responsible for developing Columbia Threadneedle's institutional business in Australia and New Zealand. His focus is serving existing clients and deepening the firm's presence in the region.

"We are pleased to welcome Giddings on board. Glen joins us at a timely juncture where his deep institutional experience and market insights will be invaluable in accelerating the growth of our business," says Raymundo Yu, Asia Pacific chairman of Columbia Threadneedle Investments.

Giddings has close to 20 years' experience in the institutional business, having worked for large international houses, including Barclays Global Investors and BlackRock, where he held similar roles. Giddings joins Columbia Threadneedle Investments from NAB Asset Management. He takes up his position on September 3, which is Sydney-based.

"Giddings has deep knowledge of the Australian and New Zealand institutional markets and a proven track record in new business development," reveals Jon Allen, head of distribution, Asia Pacific of Columbia Threadneedle Investments.