Morningstar names APAC investment chief

Morningstar has named James Foot as the chief investment officer for the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, taking over from Matt Wacher after he finished up in the role in May.

Foot returns to Morningstar after just around two years as the chief investment officer of wealth and private at Commonwealth Bank.

He spent close to nine years at Morningstar previously, serving as the head of research for APAC when he left for CBA.

"We are delighted to have James rejoin Morningstar.  He will work closely with our senior investment leaders including Bryce Anderson, Bianca Rose and Michael Malseed," Morningstar president of research and investments Daniel Needham said.

"Supported by the breadth of our Australian and global investment teams, James will play a key role in further strengthening our investment capability and delivering outcomes for clients."

Foot said he was excited to return to Morningstar at a pivotal time for investors.

"I'm thrilled to be returning to Morningstar and reconnecting with a team that is deeply committed to investor outcomes," Foot said.

"As markets become more complex, the combination of rigorous research, disciplined portfolio construction and a long-term perspective have never been more important, and I'm excited to help drive that mission across the region."

Needham had assumed the oversight and management of all APAC portfolios since May after Wacher left to join JANA Investment Advisers.

"Matt has been with Morningstar for around seven years and has made a significant contribution to our investment group. He has played a key role in driving our investment process, while also being a passionate leader and mentor to many across our teams. We are grateful for the impact he has had on our business and our people," Needham said.

"I would like to sincerely thank Matt for his many contributions to Morningstar and wish him every success in the next stage of his career."