Independent wealth management group KW Wealth has bolstered its investment strategy team with two new hires.

The firm says the appointments strengthen the existing in-house research capabilities which shape the investment strategies for KW’s clients.
 
Rupert Thompson joined KW Wealth from PAM Global Investments where he was head of research and global equity strategist.

He has more than 30 years of experience in the City, working for banks and investment businesses including Henderson Global Investors and UBS Philips and Drew as an economist and equity strategist.

During his career Mr Thompson has developed asset allocation and equity strategies for discretionary and advisory portfolios.
 
As head of research he will be responsible for supporting the development of asset allocation models for client mandates and for overseeing the research of third-party funds selected for KW Wealth’s approved lists.
 
David Winckler has also joined the firm.

He has moved from from Deloitte’s Corporate Finances team and is a chartered accountant, with more than five years’ experience in financial services.

Mr Winckler began his career at Deloitte South Africa, gaining experience as an equity analyst at Deutsche Bank Securities.

He will support Mr Thompson.
 
As the senior research analyst he will lead the group’s fund due diligence and selection work.
 
The new hires will be based in KW Wealth’s London head office, reporting into Richard Stammers, KW Wealth’s chief investment strategist.
 
Mr Stammers said: “The growth of the investment strategy team comes at an exciting time for the business.

“These appointments demonstrate KW Wealth’s commitment to investing in independent research expertise for our clients, to achieve the outcomes they are looking for.
 
“Rupert will be an invaluable member of the team bringing a wealth of experience to the team having advised on the asset allocation and equity investments for both private client and institutional portfolios.

“David’s background complements the experience and skills of the team, and will be a key contributor to the team from his first day.

“We look forward to watching David grow within the team.”
 
Mr Thompson, head of research, KW Wealth added: “We know investors are closely monitoring portfolios after a year of trade wars, Brexit talks stalling and emerging market weakness.

“Investors want first-class solutions to help them navigate difficult market conditions.

“Only by providing high-quality and insightful research can our investment managers reassure clients and make informed decisions to deliver the outcomes they require.”