M&G seeks growth in Asia Pacific with key leadership appointments in intermediary distribution

• Kristy Wong appointed Head of Intermediary Distribution, Greater China

• Alfred Foo appointed Head of Intermediary Distribution, Southeast Asia

SINGAPORE / HONG KONG, 21 October 2024 – M&G Investments (M&G) has appointed Kristy Wong as Head of Intermediary Distribution for Greater China and Alfred Foo as Head of Intermediary Distribution for Southeast Asia. These strategic appointments underscore M&G’s commitment to strengthening its distribution capabilities and expanding strategic partnerships, positioning the firm for sustainable, long-term growth across the Asia Pacific region.

Based in Hong Kong, Kristy Wong will lead M&G’s intermediary distribution business across Greater China, particularly Hong Kong and Mainland China. She will focus on developing and expanding relationships and partnerships with private banking and retail channels, driving alignment with the broader intermediary initiatives across Asia Pacific and globally. Kristy brings over 15 years of experience in the region, having previously served as Senior Vice President of Intermediary Distribution for Greater China at PineBridge Investments.

Alfred Foo, based in Singapore, will oversee M&G’s intermediary distribution efforts across Southeast Asia. He will spearhead the firm’s business development, focusing on deepening relationships with private banks and broadening the retail intermediary network. Building on the success of M&G’s distribution partnership with OCBC Singapore, Alfred will seek new distribution opportunities across Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Malaysia. His appointment recognises his significant contributions since joining three years ago, during which he has strengthened partnerships with private banks and expanded M&G’s presence in the retail market, including the successful introduction of M&G’s flagship strategies to retail investors in Singapore last year.

Both Kristy Wong and Alfred Foo will report directly to Amy Cho, Head of Asia Pacific, who joined M&G a year ago.

M&G has made significant strides in recent years in expanding its leadership and distribution network across Asia Pacific. With today’s appointments and those of Manabu Fujita as Head of Japan, Peter Kim as Head of Korea, and Lesley Lo as Head of Institutional Distribution for Asia Pacific, M&G has solidified its presence in the crucial Asia Pacific markets. The creation of this leadership team underscores the firm’s long-term commitment to grow its presence in the region, bolstering its distribution capabilities to meet growing demand for innovative investment solutions across both public and private markets.

Amy Cho, Head of Asia Pacific, M&G Investments, said, “Aligning our leadership structure with the unique needs of each market is critical to accelerate the expansion of our distribution business in the Asia Pacific region. The appointments of Kristy and Alfred will help us deepen client relationships and drive growth across Greater China and Southeast Asia. With Kristy’s expertise and Alfred’s proven contribution, we are well positioned to continue driving growth and delivering solutions that uncover opportunities from the shifting investment landscape and meet the evolving needs of investors respectively in the Greater China and Southeast Asian markets.

“Our inaugural partnership with OCBC has been a catalyst for expanding our retail distribution network and has instilled confidence in other retail intermediary markets across Southeast Asia. Alfred’s appointment is well-deserved, following his success in strengthening our distribution capabilities with key partners. Looking ahead, his leadership will be instrumental as we continue to expand our presence in Southeast Asia.”

Kristy Wong said, “I am delighted to join M&G at such a pivotal time, as the firm’s ongoing expansion presents exciting opportunities, particularly in Greater China, where the intermediary business commitment plays a critical role in deepening client relationships. I look forward to leveraging my experience and collaborating with our regional and global teams to deliver innovative solutions that meet the diverse needs of our clients in this dynamic region.”

Alfred Foo said, “Southeast Asia is a diverse region with distinct markets that require tailored strategies and local expertise. With significant growth potential in the region, I am excited to lead the next phase of growth for M&G’s intermediary business, working closely with clients and partners to unlock new opportunities.”