Dutch investment manager Robeco, which manages €200 billion of assets, has appointed Karin van Baardwijk as chief executive from January 1, 2022.
She will succeed Gilbert Van Hassel, who will move to a senior role with parent firm Orix Group in the United States.
Van Hassel has been CEO of Robeco since September 2016. He will remain in post until December 31, 2021, to ensure a smooth handover, after which he will relocate back to New York.
Van Baardwijk is currently chief operating officer and deputy CEO of Robeco.
She joined the Dutch asset manager in 2006 and has held various positions including head of operational risk management, chief information officer, and latterly COO.
“Karin has shown strong, inclusive leadership and management skills in her current role as chief operating officer and deputy CEO,” said Maarten Slendebroek, chair of Robeco’s Supervisory Board.
“Her strengths in operations, technology, sustainability, relationship building, and her extensive experience within Robeco will undoubtedly enable her to be an effective and respected CEO …
“On behalf of the Supervisory Board, we thank Gilbert for laying a strong foundation, accelerating Robeco’s growth globally, and for guiding Robeco to leading global positions in sustainable investing, quant, credits, trends and thematic and global and emerging market equities.”