Seen as an Asian markets specialist able to strengthen Matthews' regional hold, he will work closely with senior management “to ensure the firm continues to be appropriately positioned to support our global clients," it said. This includes working alongside Robert Horrocks who will stay in his day-to-day role as chief investment officer and portfolio manager, it added. A 35-year veteran of the sector, Yu-Ming was previously deputy president and global CIO for Nikko Asset Management and has managed investment teams in APAC for the past 12 years. 

CEO William Hackett called his appointment  "consistent with our thoughtful and disciplined approach … as we continue to broaden our business and client base globally.”

The independently held firm, formed in 1991, manages around US$26 billion in client assets across offices in London, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Singapore, with a focus on Asian equity and fixed income markets serving institutions, intermediaries and retail investors.