Blumer, previously CIO at Swiss Re, will join BlackRock on 8 April and his appointment is subject to approval by the FSA.
He will be responsible for developing the firm’s strategic plan for EMEA, building client and partner relationships and ensuring strong investment performance, operating and regulatory standards in the region.
Blumer will also join BlackRock’s global executive committee as senior managing director, and will serve as the firm’s representative with the FSA.
Prior to joining Swiss Re, Blumer worked at Credit Suisse in various senior capacities, during which time he established an alternatives platform, worked as head of trading and sales and CEO of asset management.
The firm also announced that James Charrington, chairman for EMEA, is assuming a new role focusing on regulation, governance and people. While he is taking a step back from the day-to-day running of the EMEA business, he will continue to serve as chairman for EMEA and as chairman of the group.