Gurtin Fixed Income has promoted Michael Johnson to co-chief executive officer, effective 23 July 2016.
The position will be shared with founder Bill Gurtin who will continue on as chief executive officer and chief investment officer, framing the firm's long-term strategic vision and overseeing the firm's investment management operations.
"The promotion is well deserved," says Gurtin. "Michael rolled up his sleeves and started our research group on his own eight years ago; since then, he's run nearly every department, making his mark on each one in the process. His proactive management of the risks faced by our industry and sincere concern for our clients' best interests have enabled us to continue to create value – both for our clients and the talented individuals who make up our firm's unique culture."
As co-chief executive officer, while continuing to serve in the capacity of chief risk officer, Johnson will be responsible for the firm's day-to-day management and all firm-level risk management.
Johnson has 21 years of financial services experience with a focus on municipal bonds and risk management. Prior to joining the firm, he served as head of Merrill Lynch's municipal credit, banking credit, and insurance credit teams. Prior to Merrill Lynch, Johnson spent seven years at Moody's Investors Service in several public finance groups, ultimately serving as the co-manager of Moody's Midwest regional office.
"Michael is a rare talent with the combination of vast industry knowledge, creativity, humility, and the highest integrity," Gurtin says. "These qualities will serve him well as he continues to broaden and hone his executive leadership skills, and we prepare to enter a new era of growth and success."
