Kevin will be responsible for leading AJ Bell’s investment team and developing the range of investment solutions it offers to financial advisers and customers. This currently comprises a managed portfolio service and range of five risk-rated passive funds.
Kevin was previously chief investment officer at Brown Shipley with overall responsibility for the investment proposition, incorporating investment strategy and portfolio implementation. He then took on the role of group head of research and strategy at Brown Shipley’s parent company KBL European Private Bankers where he was responsible for the investment strategy of its European private banking network.
At the same time, Matthew Brennan will also be joining AJ Bell as fund manager. He will be part of the team responsible for the day-to-day running of the AJ Bell passive funds and will work with Kevin to further grow the range of investment options AJ Bell provides.
Matthew previously worked with Kevin at Brown Shipley Private Bank, where he was senior fund manager and head of fixed income research, with specific responsibility for managing its discretionary fixed income fund.
Andy Bell, chief executive of AJ Bell, comments:
“Our managed portfolio service and range of passive funds have been well received by the market and we are looking to build on that initial success. Kevin and Matthew bring a huge amount of expertise and knowledge to the business at a time when we believe there is growing demand for straightforward, low cost investment solutions.”
Kevin Doran, chief investment officer and managing director of AJ Bell Investments, comments:
“Following the FCA’s asset management market study there is a huge focus on the value active fund management is delivering to investors. This creates an opportunity for a new investment proposition capable of delivering active returns at passive prices.”