The appointment marks an acceleration in Royal London Asset Management’s international expansion, and forms part of an initiative for the business.

Royal London Asset Management has named Ed Venner as chief client officer.

Venner joins from Franklin Templeton, where he was recently global distribution chief operating officer and chair of the board of Martin Currie. During his career at Legg Mason, prior to its acquisition by Franklin Templeton, Venner served in a number of senior sales roles including head of US sales and interim head of global distribution. He was also international chief financial officer, the firm said in a statement.

The appointment marks an acceleration in Royal London Asset Management’s international expansion, and forms part of an initiative for the business.

Venner will report to Hans Georgeson, chief executive at Royal London Asset Management. “Ed brings significant experience across global markets, as we continue to focus on our strategy of delivering for our UK clients while broadening our international footprint,” Georgeson said.

The firm also announced the departure of Rob Williams, chief distribution officer after an 11-year tenure, saying that he had been “key in overseeing a remarkable transformation at Royal London Asset Management.”

Last year, William Nicoll was appointed to the new role of head of private assets to broaden Royal London's property offering.