Franklin Templeton today announced the appointment of Rene Buehlmann as head of Asia Pacific, effective 21 September 2026, subject to regulatory approval.

In his role, Buehlmann (pictured) will lead Franklin Templeton’s business across Asia Pacific, spending time across all markets. He will oversee the firm’s strategic growth initiatives, client engagement and business development efforts.

With over 2,600 employees across Asia Pacific, Franklin Templeton maintains a strong regional presence spanning Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Japan, China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Korea, Australia, and other markets, according to a statement by the US asset manager.

Buehlmann has lived and worked in Switzerland, the United States, Hong Kong and Singapore and has more than 35 years of leadership experience across wealth management, asset management and banking.

He most recently advised KKR on the assessment of strategic acquisition opportunities in the wealth and asset management industry. Prior to that, he was global chief executive officer of Aberdeen Investments, where he led the firm’s global investment business while also overseeing the Asia Pacific region.

Before joining Aberdeen Investments, he spent nearly three decades at UBS, including 15 years in Asia Pacific, holding senior wealth and asset management leadership roles, including head of asset management Asia Pacific and a seat on the regional executive committee.  

“The appointment of Rene reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to growing our leadership team and investing in Asia Pacific,” said Daniel Gamba, co-president and chief commercial officer, Franklin Templeton. 

“Rene is a highly respected industry leader with deep client relationships, extensive regional experience and a proven track record of building high-performing teams and delivering growth. His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to expand our capabilities and strengthen our partnerships with clients across the region.”