Azimut Group, the Milan-listed standalone asset management company, has appointed Stefano Chao as the new Chief Executive Officer of Azimut Singapore and Asia Head, as of August 2025. The move is a strategic signal highlighting Azimut’s focus on growing its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region.
Leadership Role and Regional Strategy
Singapore-based Chao will manage Azimut’s business in its regional offices in Singapore, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Taipei. Reporting to Group CEO Giorgio Medda directly, the main priorities for Chao are to increase coordination between Azimut’s Asia offices and create cross-border solutions for private and institutional clients throughout the region. Strategic emphasis will be placed on growing the fund business and reinforcing Azimut’s presence in the Asia-Pacific market.
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Background and Experience
Chao came aboard at Azimut Group in 2011 and subsequently took on important positions such as General Manager and Legal Representative of Azimut China. In the course of his work in these capacities, he oversaw the growth of the Private Fund Manager (PFM) and Qualified Domestic Limited Partnership (QDLP) business in China. Before working with Azimut, Chao was Vice President for Lehman Brothers’ Fixed Income Special Opportunities Group in New York. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University and an MBA from the China Europe International Business School (CEIBS).
Azimut Group Overview
Established in 1990 and listed on the Milan Stock Exchange, Azimut Holding S.p.A. is an independent, international group dealing in asset management, wealth management, investment banking, and fintech services.
The group has operations in 20 countries across the globe, with strong roots in Asia. As of June 2025, Azimut Group has under management in excess of SGD 170 billion in assets, with in excess of 2,200 financial advisers and over 1,700 employees worldwide. In Singapore, Azimut has assets under management in excess of SGD 3.6 billion and a team of over 70 professionals.
Importance of the Appointment
Chao’s appointment is viewed as a crucial move by Azimut to bolster its presence in the Asia-Pacific market. With his long background in the financial services sector and intimate knowledge of Asian markets, Chao stands ready to head Azimut Singapore and propel the group’s growth in the region. His stewardship is likely to help Azimut become more effective in providing customized investment solutions and grow its client base across Asia.
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This succession is a testament to Azimut’s continued commitment to responding to the changing financial environment in Asia and to using its global experience to address the changing demands of clients within the region.
