Russell Reynolds Taps Alistair Macrae to Lead Asia Pacific

Russell Reynolds Associates named Alistair Macrae head of its Asia Pacific operations, effective July 1. He succeeds Matthias Oberholzer, who will return to global advisory work from Zurich.

Macrae joined the firm after a corporate career that included CFO of Fairfax Media's digital business and strategy roles at Tabcorp Holdings. He is a member of the global senior leadership team. His work focuses on board composition and CEO succession, the firm said.

"I am honored to have been appointed to lead the Asia Pacific region at such an exciting time," Macrae said in a statement. He cited economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, and critical talent gaps as challenges for regional leaders.

Oberholzer said the appointment is part of planned leadership succession. He expressed confidence in Macrae's understanding of the region's cultural and business dynamics, from Australia to key hubs in India, North and South Asia.

The firm has 500 consultants in 47 offices. Macrae's appointment comes as companies in the region face pressure to adapt leadership to digital and economic shifts, the firm said.

Macrae received his BCom from the University of Melbourne and his MBA from Melbourne Business School. He is a qualified chartered accountant.