UBS Asset Management has appointed Joseph Azelby, a former NFL linebacker, as head of real estate and private markets (REPM), replacing Thomas Wels.

Operating out of New York, Azelby will manage a business that has presence in 14 countries and headcount of more than 550. REPM oversees $100bn in assets.

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In the new role, he will report to UBS Asset Management president Ulrich Koerner.

Azleby previously served as the senior partner and head of real assets at Apollo Global Management. He was also the CEO of the global real assets business at JP Morgan for 18 years.

In this capacity, Azelby built a platform covering private and public real estate, infrastructure and maritime investments across the US, Europe and Asia Pacific.

Meanwhile, Wels will now serve as divisional vice chairman at UBS Asset Management.

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Referring to Azelby, Koerner said: “His appointment reflects our commitment to further expand our leading REPM franchise, with a clear focus on developing innovative products and delivering attractive returns for our clients.

“As part of one of the largest alternatives managers in the world, I am confident that Joe and the team are strongly positioned to build on our long-established track record to take the business forward.”