GLOBAL – Benjamin Phillips, international managing director of research and consulting firm Cerulli Associates, has left to join Putnam Lovell NBF Securities’ financial institutions group.

Phillips - regarded as an investment management industry expert - has been appointed by the New York-based firm as head of strategic research.

IPE understands that Phillips, 33, recently left Boston-based Cerulli, and will join Putnam in February.

He was at Cerulli for roughly eight years, during which time he developed and managed the firm’s global research arm. He also provided strategic advice to, amongst others, mutual fund companies, banks and insurers locally and abroad.

Phillips will be filling a new position at Putnam Lovell, and will oversee strategic research on traditional and alternative fund management firms.

A press release by the investment banking firm stated that additional responsibilities would include advising Putnam clients on strategy and execution. Phillips will be based mainly in Boston and New York.

"We’re thrilled that Ben is joining us,’’ said Putnam Lovell NBF president John Griff.

"Ben is highly regarded for his keen understanding of the global investment management business and his expertise will prove to be a great asset to Putnam Lovell NBF and our clients.’’

Prior to joining Cerulli, Phillips reported on the asset management industry for approximately five years. He worked on Investment Management Weekly, Return on Investment magazine, and was also senior editor at Institutional Investor.

Cerulli declined to comment on Phillips’ departure.