The asset management business of Germany's Allianz Group has created a new leadership position for its UK fixed income investments.

Allianz Global Investors has hired Mike Riddell from M&G as UK fixed income portfolio manager.

Riddell joins from M&G Investments where he was an active contributor to the Bond Vigilantes blog, writing regularly on global fixed income topics, and was particularly well-known for his bearish view of China. He brings almost 15 years' experience in international fixed income markets.

Based in London, Riddell will report to Mauro Vittorangeli, chief investment officer for conviction fixed income at Allianz GI. His appointment comes as Allianz GI, which has €147 billion ($165 billion) of European fixed income assets under management, expands its offering with a regional fixed income focus in the UK. 

“Creating a dedicated footprint in the UK, one of the world’s most important and outward-looking financial markets, will perfectly complement our existing eurozone expertise, giving our clients access to a one-stop shop for European fixed income,” said Allianz GI's global head of fixed income, Franck Dixmier.

“Mike joins us at an exciting time for our fixed income business, and I am sure that his deep experience of both UK and global fixed income markets will play a central role in building this new pillar in our international fixed income capability. Hiring such a senior, experienced fixed income practitioner as Mike underlines our ambition for our bond business in the UK.”

With 24 offices across 18 countries, Allianz Global Investors looks after more than €446 billion in assets for individuals, families and institutions worldwide.