Blackstone appoints Liping Zhang Greater China chairman
Blackstone has named Liping Zhang senior managing director and chairman for Greater China. In his new role, Zhang will be based in Hong Kong and he will guide the firm in its expansion plans in the region, Blackstone said in a statement.
An industry veteran backed by more than 30 years of experience in the financial industry, corporate management and government sector roles, Zhang joins Blackstone from Credit Suisse where he most recent post was as co-CEO of Greater China and vice chairman of global investment bank.
He graduated from Beijing University’s School of International Business & Economics, and he received a Master’s degree in International Affairs and International Law from St. John’s University. He has also attended NYU’s Stern School of Business.
Commenting on Zhang’s appointment, Blackstone chairman, CEO and co-founder Stephen Schwarzman said:
“Liping Zhang is one of the preeminent figures in finance in China, and his appointment underscores the strategic importance of Greater China to Blackstone. With his public and private sector experience across the region, Liping possesses a unique perspective and deep knowledge of the market that will serve us well as we seek to build further upon our leading presence and relationships in the region. We look forward to his many contributions.”
Manulife’s Head of Asia Investment Management Services departs
Ajay Saratchandran, Manulife’s Head of Asia Investment Management Services, has left the firm in May.
According to Linkedin page, Hong Kong-based Saratchandran was director of Mutual Funds, ETFs, and Alternatives at ANZ in Singapore before joining Manulife. Prior to that, he was a research consultant for Mercer Investment Consulting, also in Singapore.
He began his career in financial services with a two-year analyst stint at Merrill Lynch Investment Managers in Melbourne, Australia.
It is unknown whether or not he has joined another firm.
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