The investment management division of UK-based Smith & Williamson has made an appointment from a rival.

Smith & Williamson Investment Management has hired Kris Das as an investment specialist as part of its focus on the discretionary and independent financial advisory sector.

Das joins from Threadneedle Asset Management, where he was head of investment communications. He previously worked in investment communication and product specialist roles at Schroders, Aviva Investors and Newton. Das will be based in London.

“The appointment of Kris is a signal to the market of our intention to further develop the promotion of our fund management capability to the discretionary and IFA sector. Kris brings a high degree of experience in this field and makes a valuable addition to Smith & Williamson,” said Ed Rosengarten, partner and head of funds business.

“We are keen to ensure that more and more intermediaries have a good understanding of our funds and have an opportunity to consider these as investments for their clients.”

The hire follows that of Myria Evdokimou, who joined last month from Liontrust as fund sales manager.