Clearbridge Investments appoints Ryan Virag as London-based Client Portfolio Manager

Newly Created Position Expands International Presence
ClearBridge Investments today announced that Ryan Virag, CFA, Client Portfolio Manager will be based in London, United Kingdom to build out ClearBridge’s footprint in Europe.   Mr. Virag will serve as a local investment management resource for clients.  Additionally, he will work to broaden the awareness of ClearBridge and its investment capabilities among investors, investment consultants and financial advisors.
ClearBridge Investments is a leading global investment manager committed to delivering long-term results through active management. The firm employs a disciplined investment approach that utilizes fundamental research and the insights of veteran portfolio managers – some of whom have been managing the same portfolio for decades – to build portfolios of high quality companies. ClearBridge offers equity strategies focused on three primary client objectives: high active share, income solutions and low volatility.
“We see significant opportunity to expand sales and awareness of our investment capabilities globally.  More and more international investors are seeking established active managers with a proven track record,” stated Terrence Murphy, CEO of ClearBridge Investments.  “Ryan was an Investment Strategist representing global and international equity portfolios at a previous employer and has established relationships with key institutional and retail investors making it a natural for him to be our first appointment outside of the U.S.”
“ClearBridge’s focus on quality and fundamentals is very much in demand among UK and European investors who are looking for exposure to U.S.  and global equity strategies which employ authentic active management.  I am very excited for this opportunity and to broaden ClearBridge’s relationship with investors in the region,” said Mr. Virag.
Mr. Virag joined ClearBridge Investments in 2012 and has 15 years of investment experience.  Prior to joining the firm, he was an Investment Strategist for global and international equity portfolios at Oppenheimer Funds.  He was also an Analyst in the merchant banking division of Goldman Sachs and an Analyst at Morgan Stanley.  Mr. Virag is a CFA® charterholder and graduated with a BS in Business Administration, Finance from Villanova University.