Voya Appoints Asset Management CEO

Christine HurtsellersVoya Financial has appointed Christine Hurtsellers as CEO of its asset management business, effective today.

She replaces Jeffrey Becker, who has left to join PGIM manager Jennison Associates after seven years at the helm.

Hurtsellers joined Voya Investment Management in 2004, working initially in its structured finance division. She became CIO of fixed income in 2009, and was responsible for $134 billion in assets and more than 100 staff members by the end of June this year.

Prior to joining Voya, Hurtsellers led the “agency-guaranteed retained portfolio team” at Freddie Mac. She is also a member of the US Treasury’s borrowing advisory committee, and holds a degree in finance from Indiana University, as well as a CFA certification.

Alain Karaoglan, CEO of retirement and investment solutions at Voya, praised Hurtsellers for turning around Voya’s flagging fixed income performance, adding that she was “an inspirational leader, an exceptional money manager, and one of the brightest people in our industry.”

Matt Toms, currently head of public fixed income, will step up to CIO of fixed income, reporting to Hurtsellers.

Becker “established a great culture and guiding principles for the firm,” Hurtsellers said of her predecessor.

At Jennison, Becker will serve as chairman and CEO starting October 3. 

 “We are delighted to welcome Jeff to the firm,” said Spiros Segalas, president and co-founder of Jennison. “Jeff has a distinct combination of professional attributes that complement our strong existing team and reinforce our focus on investment performance, long-standing client relationships, professional excellence, and stability.”

Jennison managed $165.2 billion as of June 30.