NETHERLANDS – Robeco has named Niek Molenaar as head of Robeco Asset Management as part of a revamp that has left marketing head Hans van der Koogh ousted from the firm’s top level.

“The present head of Robeco Direct, Niek Molenaar, will lead the RAM business unit,” the firm, part of Rabobank, said late last week.

“Robeco is simplifying its senior management structure,” Robeco said, adding its executive board would now become its management board and will be headed by new chief executive George Möller.

Möller joined Robeco at the end of June, following Géry Daeninck’s resignation. He was formerly a member of the executive board and chief operating officer of Euronext.

“Reporting lines will thus be shortened, the firm's management will be closer to the business and the heads of the business units will be collectively responsible for the functioning of the entire group,” Robeco said, introducing the latest change.

Hans van der Koogh, Robeco’s head of marketing and an executive board member, will not be part of the new structure. A spokesman said: “There are discussions on his future.”

The executive board had comprised Sander van Eijkern of Robeco Alternative Investments, chief financial officer Constant Korthout and van der Koogh.

Korthout and Van Eijkern are to retain their position in the new management board, which will include Molenaar, and his replacement at Robeco Direct .

Molenaar’s successor will be probably hired externally, the spokesman said.

Stefan Bichsel will be responsible for internal operations, including Robeco USA.