Evidentia nabs Natixis IM country head as part of ‘succession plan’

Yasmine Raso

Senior Journalist

1 June 2026

Evidentia Group has undertaken a “planned leadership evolution” that has seen chief executive Michael Wright elevated to chair the group’s board and recruited former Country Head for Natixis Investment Managers locally, Louise Watson, to replace him as CEO.

A statement from the managed accounts specialist repeatedly emphasised that these transitions – including Wright succeeding former Board Chair and group founder Peter Smithm, who will remain with the business and its parent Generation Development Group (GDG) – are “the outcome of a structured and considered succession process, designed to support [the firm’s] long-term growth strategy”.

While Wright will remain closely involved with the firm’s strategic direction, corporate governance and long-term growth agenda, Watson brings a wealth of asset management and leadership experience across local and overseas markets to the new role.

Her expertise lies in the development of investment platforms, enhancing distribution strategies covering public and private markets solutions and nurturing relationships with financial advisers, wealth firms and institutional clients, gained from senior roles at JPMorgan, Man Group, Credit Suisse, Aberdeen and Challenger in addition to Natixis most recently.

Evidentia’s statement confirmed Watson’s appointment is intended to “accelerate distribution opportunities and scale platform capability as the business enters its next phase”, working closely with Wright to ensure a seamless transition.

“Leading Lonsec Group and Evidentia Group has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. I am incredibly proud of the transformation we have achieved and the strong, future-focused organisation that has been built,” Wright said.

“As the Group enters its next phase of growth, I am excited with the addition of Louise and her significant expertise and look forward to supporting Louise and the leadership team as Evidentia’s Chair.

“This transition allows me to continue contributing to Evidentia’s long-term strategy, governance and ambition while ensuring the business remains well positioned for the future.”

Smith also commented on the leadership transitions the business is undergoing.

“It has been particularly rewarding to see Evidentia and Lonsec Investment Solutions come together under Mike’s tenure as CEO to create a scaled and leading managed accounts business, which has continued to grow and strengthen its position in the market.”

GDG chief executive, Grant Hackett, praised Wright’s “exceptional leadership” of Evidentia Group and its former iteration under the Lonsec brand, and signalled the firm’s anticipation at Evidentia’s growth strategy coming to fruition under Watson’s leadership.

“Mike’s … strategic vision, focus on governance and risk, and commitment to delivering value for advisers and clients have been instrumental in shaping these businesses.

“We are delighted that Mike will continue to play a critical role as Chair of Evidentia Group, providing continuity and strategic leadership as the organisation enters its next phase.

“Importantly, we are pleased that Peter Smith continues to play an active and influential role across Evidentia and GDG as Founder and Director, maintaining strong continuity across clients, market relationships and strategic initiatives.

“We welcome Evidentia Group’s new CEO – Louise Watson, a highly experienced asset management leader with a proven track record in scaling investment businesses and driving strategic growth, who will commence in the role in August.

“GDG remains strongly committed to supporting and investing in Evidentia’s next phase of growth. The combination of ASX 200 backing and preserving the entrepreneurial culture of the business positions Evidentia strongly for continued expansion.”