David Abner, head of WisdomTree Europe, has left after 11 years with the ETF provider.
Effective 1 August, he will be replaced by Alexis Marinof (pictured), who joined WisdomTree in July 2017 as head of European distribution before being promoted to chief operating officer, Europe.
Abner is leaving to form an independent consulting firm focused on the convergence between traditional and digital financial assets.
The new business will have WisdomTree as one its primary clients on key projects related to the ETP market.
Abner joined WisdomTree Investments in 2008 from BNP Paribas as director of institutional ETF sales and trading before being promoted to head of capital markets in 2012.
He was responsible for leading the integration of the firm’s first European acquisition, Boost ETP in 2014.
Abner started his career at Bear Stearns in 1992 where he spent 14 years until 2006 when he joined BNP Paribas as managing director, head of ETFs.
Jonathan Steinberg, CEO of WisdomTree, commented: “Dave has played an integral role in developing and fortifying our team in Europe for the past five years.
“Overall, he has established a unique presence in the ETP industry with relationships spanning from the largest institutional investors to the regulatory bodies, developing the frameworks for the future growth of the industry.
“His work on ETF liquidity through the development of the ETF implied liquidity function and his books have helped strengthen WisdomTree’s position as a premier solutions provider to ETP investors, and I am glad that we will be continuing a strong relationship with him into the future.”
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Marinof brings over 20 years’ experience in the asset management industry. He joined WisdomTree from State Street Global Advisors where he was head of SPDR ETFs, EMEA, and managing director.
In his new role, Marinof will be responsible for leading the next stage of the firm’s expansion in Europe.
Marinof commented: “The growth potential for ETPs in Europe remains vast. I believe that we are well-positioned to build on this momentum.”
Steinberg added: “Alexis has a strong understanding of the business and company culture, combined with many years of industry experience.”
