Western Asset creates investment specialist role

Western Asset, a Legg Mason fixed income specialist affiliate, has announced the appointment of Jonathan Baird to the newly-created role of investment specialist and client executive, based in the firm's Melbourne office, effective immediately.

In this role, Baird will be responsible for managing client interests across the Legg Mason Western Asset fund range covering both Australian and global strategies.

He joins from UBS Asset Management where he was an investment specialist in the Australian fixed income team, a role he was appointed to in September 2015. Prior to that, he worked at Zenith Investment Partners as a lead analyst for four years on debt and equity sector reviews.

Commenting on Baird's appointment, head of Western Asset Australia, Anthony Kirkham, said: "We have created this role in response to the increased level of interests for our bond funds. In this low interest world investors are keen to construct a well-diversified and balanced portfolio and to utilise best of breed fixed income strategies. Jonathan has the experience and expertise to work with clients in this regard."

Baird added: "I am delighted to join such an impressive organisation and look forward to working with new and existing clients to develop the best investment strategies for the current environment."