Robeco launches Australian office

Netherlands-based asset firm Robeco has announced the opening of a Sydney office focused on driving institutional sales to Australia's domestic asset management industry. The Australian operation will be led by Stephen Dennis, former head of institutional business at Aberdeen Asset Management in Australia.

Robeco aims to translate its success in Europe and Asia to the Australian institutional investment market by focusing on alpha-oriented strategies such as sustainable and responsible investing, quantitative, Asia-Pacific and alternative capabilities.

"There are tremendous opportunities in the Australian market for an established asset management firm, such as Robeco, which mixes deep research with long-term client focus, an innovative product range and a proven track record," said Tony Edwards, chief executive officer of Robeco Asia-Pacific.

Dennis, who reports directly to Edwards, will head a two-man team from the Rabobank offices in Sydney. Prior to working at Aberdeen Asset Management, Dennis was the head of institutional sales at Deutsche Asset Management in Australia.  

Robeco's Hong Kong office will leverage sales and offer operational support to the Sydney office as part of a broader Asia-Pacific strategy.