T. Rowe Price names head of intermediary for Australia

T. Rowe Price has appointed a head of intermediary for Australia, following a three-month absence in the role after Jonathan Ross' departure in March.

Heath Branigan has assumed the role at the beginning of the month, now reporting to head of Asia Pacific distribution Elsie Chan.

He brings nearly three decades of experience in financial services across the UK and Australia, including 15 years with T. Rowe Price as business development manager for financial institutions where he was instrumental in strengthening adviser relationships, T. Rowe Price said.

He was also stationed in AMP Capital, J.P. Morgan Asset Management and Asset Alliance in the UK with similar capacities earlier in his career.

Welcoming Branigan, Chan explained it is important to continue bolstering its Australian arm as it remains an important market for the business.

"Australia is an important market for T. Rowe Price and we are well positioned to service and provide solutions to our clients in this market," Chan said.

"We look forward to building on the strong relationships Heath has established across the adviser community."

Meanwhile, head of distribution for Australia and New Zealand Darren Hall, who has confirmed he will depart the company next month, said Branigan's contributions were well-recognised by the firm.

"He is highly regarded across the industry, with a strong understanding of the local advice landscape and the evolving needs of advisers," Hall said.

"These qualities make him well suited to guide the next phase of growth for our intermediary business."

Reflecting on his appointment, Branigan highlighted escalating market pressures are increasing portfolio complexity as advisers continue to focus on delivering tailored advice at scale.

"We are focused on broadening strategic partnerships across the advice ecosystem, from individual advice businesses and dealer groups to asset consultants and investment platforms," Branigan said.