Jason Collins to run iShares

BlackRock Australasia has appointed Jason Collins head of iShares and index investments for the Australian and New Zealand region.

The new title will broaden out his current role as deputy head of BlackRock Australasia where he works across strategic initiatives and has high-level responsibility for enterprise relationships in the region.

BlackRock's head of Australasia, Andrew Landman, noted Collins' decade-long track record in successfully building the local BlackRock franchise.

"He has an in-depth understanding of the needs of all Australian investors from wealth advisers building model portfolios for their clients to superannuation funds looking to build scale and access global insights," he said.

"The focus of our local iShares franchise has always been to offer institutional-quality, cost-effective portfolio building blocks and key thematic exposures in response to our wealth and institutional client needs. We have an unwavering commitment to our partners to help them deliver the best outcomes for their end-investor clients and members.

Peter Loehnert, BlackRock head of iShares and index investments for Asia PacificAsia Pacific, said the firm's priority is to evolve the delivery of its iShares platform.

"This includes using iShares ETFs for tactical asset allocation to core portfolio building blocks and whole portfolio solutions," he said.

"Jason will accelerate our efforts in Australasia to democratise investing to help a broader base of investors achieve their long-term financial goals".

Collins sits on the BlackRock Australian board.