UK-based asset manager Gartmore Investment Management has appointed Dominic Rossi  chief investment officer. He transfers in from UK rival Threadneedle Asset Management, where he served as the head of its equity division.

Based in London, Mr Rossi will oversee global investments. Aside from further offices in continental Europe and the US, Gartmore has interests in both the Japanese and Chilean markets.  Assets under management at Gartmore are over £20 billion.

The recent financial turmoil has seen the company switch its investment strategy to increasingly resemble that of a hedge-fund and rely on a system of decentralised multi-boutique units to make investment decisions.

Established in 1969 and floated in 1993, Gartmore saw a management buyout in 2006 with funds provided by the US private equity firm Hellman & Friedman which remains a part-owner.