Investec Asset Management, a specialist investment manager, has hired Chris Newson as Director of Private Markets for the firm.  

Previously Chief Executive of Standard Bank Africa, Newson will work across the firm’s well-established Africa Private Markets platform, which has evolved to cover private equity, direct credit, and infrastructure debt, including the developmental Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund. 

Commenting on his appointment, Newson said: “I am delighted to have joined such a highly regarded firm and look forward to working with the team in continuing to grow what is already such a unique platform.”

Leveraging his extensive African network, he will work with the heads of the private markets teams to continue developing their businesses.

Prior to his role as CEO of Standard Bank Africa, he held a number of senior leadership positions within the Corporate and Investment Banking and Africa divisions of the Standard Bank Group, including Head of Corporate and Institutional Banking in South Africa, Corporate and Institutional Banking for Africa, and Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC in Nigeria.

Domenico Ferrini, co-CIO at Investec Asset Management, said: “We are excited for Chris to join our team, as we are entering an exciting time for investment in Africa.” 

“Confidence is returning to several markets against a backdrop of general economic stability and recovery. Sophisticated investors are looking through the cycle to cheap currencies, low entry valuations, high yields and compelling growth drivers and we look forward to navigating these opportunities in partnership with our clients,” he said.