Hong Kong-based Link Asset Management has revealed its plans for an interim leadership team to prepare for the upcoming departure of its group CEO, George Hongchoy.

Hongchoy, who is also executive director, recently announced his plan to retire on December 31 after 16 years with the company.

As a result, Link has appointed John Saunders, currently group chief investment officer, to its board as executive director, effective January 1. Saunders will work with Kok-Siong Ng, executive director and group CFO, as an interim leadership structure to cover the responsibilities of the group CEO.

Link’s chair Duncan Owen and a newly formed Chairs Committee will provide oversight, support and independent guidance to the executive directors in the execution of strategy and key initiatives.

“This interim arrangement will allow George to fulfill his wish to retire, leveraging the strong and established leadership team that Link has in place to deliver continuity until such time that a new group CEO is able to take up the role,” said Owen.

The independent board members will carry out a comprehensive search for the next Group CEO.

Link Asset Management is the owner of Link Real Estate Investment Trust (Link Reit), which operates malls across Hong Kong, Mainland China, Australia, Singapore and the UK.