Sun Life has named Benjamin Deng as president of Asia asset management, a role created to enhance the company’s investment and asset management functions across the region.
Effective Jan. 1, Deng (pictured) will oversee investment strategies and lead initiatives aimed at expanding Sun Life’s presence in the asset management market.
He will report to Manjit Singh, president of Sun Life Asia, and Steve Peacher, executive chair of SLC Management, the company’s institutional asset management division.
Deng’s role reflects Sun Life’s commitment to aligning its insurance and asset management operations with its growth objectives in Asia. His responsibilities will include managing investment operations and driving strategic projects to position the company as a competitive player in the regional asset management landscape.
Previously, Deng served as group chief investment officer at Ping An Insurance, where he directed the management of investments totalling US$740 billion in assets. His career also includes senior leadership roles at China Pacific Insurance and AIA, where he focused on investment solutions and portfolio strategies.
Singh highlighted Deng’s expertise in investment management, noting that his leadership and experience are pivotal for expanding the company’s asset management footprint in Asia.
“With Benjamin’s deep industry expertise and proven leadership, I am confident that he will drive significant growth in our asset management business in the years ahead,” he said.
“I am honoured to be named president, Asia asset management,” Deng said. “In this capacity, I will do my utmost to work closely with my colleagues to grow our presence in Asian markets and provide the best service to our clients.”
Sun Life enhanced its investment and asset management functions after the appointment of Randy Lianggara as president of emerging markets, Asia, effective Nov. 1.
Lianggara now leads the company’s initiatives in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia while overseeing its joint venture with China Everbright Group in mainland China.
Also reporting to Singh, Lianggara joins the Asia executive team with over two decades of leadership experience in the insurance sector. His previous roles include regional CEO for Asia at Aviva and AXA, where he managed operations in multiple Asian markets.
He is a Certified Financial Planner and holds a bachelor of business administration from Iowa State University and an MBA from Golden Gate University, alongside various professional certifications in financial services.
