Global investment firm Schroders’ Impact investment management firm BlueOrchard announced today the appointment of Michael Wehrle as its new CEO. Wehrle will succeed Philipp Mueller, who has stepped down after serving as CEO since 2020.

Founded in 2001, BlueOrchard offers impact investing solutions across asset classes, including private and listed debt, private equity, sustainable infrastructure and blended finance, with nearly $10 billion invested to date across more than 105 countries. Global investment manager Schroders acquired a majority stake in BlueOrchard in 2019. The firm announced last month that it has reached $5 billion in assets under management.

Wehrle said:

“BlueOrchard has supported hundreds of millions of people in emerging and frontier markets. It is an honour to lead the firm into the next chapter. I thank the Board for its trust and look forward to strengthening BlueOrchard’s position as a market leader in impact investing.”

Wehrle joined BlueOrchard in 2021, and has most recently been serving as Head of Investment Solutions and Private Equity, responsible for overseeing the portfolio management and asset allocation of BlueOrchard’s funds and mandates as well as the development of product solutions. Prior to joining BlueOrchard, he held several management positions at Partners Group in Switzerland and UK.

Peter Fanconi, Chairman of BlueOrchard, said:

“With Michael we are delighted to promote a strong and proven internal successor as our new CEO. Michael’s mandate will be to position us for future growth, advancing towards our strategic goal to deliver impact investment solutions that meet our clients’ needs. Together with our highly talented staff, he will continue to serve our clients and write the next chapter in our 25-year history.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Philipp for his exceptional contribution to BlueOrchard over the past years. Under Philipp’s leadership, BlueOrchard further enhanced its impact investment offering and increased its AuM to USD 5 billion, achieving a major milestone.”