Architas, the multi-manager arm of France’s AXA Group, is preparing for its new offering for financial advisors.

London-based Architas has hired Avni Thakrar as a product specialist to support the upcoming launch of its managed portfolio service.

Thakrar previously spent two years as a director of asset management solutions at SEI Investments, where she led the development of new multi-asset income, liquid alternatives and smart beta fund ranges. She has also served as investment director at Ingenious Investments and assistant director at Royal Bank of Scotland.

She will work with advisors to explain the funds and services offered by Architas, particularly the soon-to-be launched Architas Managed Portfolio Service.

“We appreciate the level of due diligence now required of advisors when reviewing investment options for their clients. We are determined to make this process as simple and straightforward as possible for advisors,” said Cedric Bucher, head of Architas UK funds.

“Avni’s deep technical expertise makes her extremely well qualified to engage with advisors and ensure they fully understand how we can potentially meet the needs of their clients.”