Standard Life Investments (SLI) head of equities David Cumming is to leave the firm to 'pursue other interests', becoming the first departure after a proposed merger with Aberdeen Asset Management.
Mr Cumming's exit comes in the same week as parent firm Standard Life confirmed a deal to merge with Aberdeen in an £11bn all-share deal, creating the UK's largest asset manager.
It brings an end to a 19-year stint with the Scottish firm. Mr Cumming joined in 1998, becoming head of UK equities in 2000 and was appointed as an executive director in 2004, overseeing the firm's entire equities business while retaining his UK focus.
SLI would not confirm the timing of Mr Cumming's resignation.
The business said head of European equities Stan Pearson is now acting head of equities, while director of equity research Andrew Millington is acting head of UK equities, both still managing their retail funds.
Chief investment office Rod Paris said: "I would also like to thank David for his support and contribution to the business over the many years we have worked together, and wish him the very best."
