Franklin Templeton chooses head of alternative sales for EMEA

George Szemere was named head of alternative sales, Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Franklin Templeton (BEN) Investments (BEN), a spokeswoman said.

Mr. Szemere replaced Peter Vincent and is responsible for expanding Franklin Templeton's alternatives business in the EMEA region, partnering closely with the alternative product and distribution teams to generate new offerings.

Mr. Vincent was named regional head, client investment solutions for EMEA within the firm's multiasset solutions business. The position is new.

"I am delighted to welcome (Mr. Szmere) on board and look forward to working closely with him," said Vivek Kudva, managing director for EMEA and India, said in a news release. "He brings over 18 years' experience in the asset management industry combining sales, relationship management, product development and leadership skills."

Franklin Templeton's alternatives business includes private equity, hedge funds, commodities, real estate, infrastructure and venture capital strategies. Assets under management were not disclosed.

Mr. Szemere was head of liquid alternatives and global strategic relations EMEA distribution at Columbia Threadneedle. A spokeswoman could not be reached for information about a replacement.