One of the most prominent figures in Europe's asset management industry has switched to a rival.

Campbell Fleming, Columbia Threadneedle Investments' chief executive for Europe, Middle East and Africa, and global chief operating officer, is leaving the firm for London-listed Aberdeen Asset Management.

Fleming, who joined Columbia Threadneedle six years ago, will join Aberdeen as global head of distribution, succeeding John Brett who stepped down from the role late last year. He will report to CEO, Martin Gilbert, and will sit on Aberdeen’s group management board.

“After an in-depth worldwide search process, Campbell was identified as the outstanding candidate given his expertise and experience across client channels globally, including North America which is a key focus for us,” said Gilbert in a statement today.

In his new role, Fleming, who joined Threadneedle from JP Morgan in 2009, will spearhead Aberdeen’s global distribution platform encompassing 450 people across business development, product specialists, marketing and client service. As of the end of 2015, Aberdeen managed assets of £291 billion ($419 billion) on behalf of institutional and private investors.

Ted Truscott, CEO at Columbia Threadneedle, said in a separate statement: “Campbell has been an advocate for our active management approach and investment track record, as well as our client-focused culture. We wish Campbell every success in the future. We have a strong and experienced leadership team in place and we remain focused on delivering successful investment outcomes and solutions for our clients.”

When contacted by this publication, a spokesperson for the firm said it was implementing plans to appoint a new head of EMEA to replace Fleming, taking into consideration the ongoing needs of the business and organisation. Columbia Threadneedle, which operates from 18 countries, managed assets of £320 billion as of the end of 2015.