Aegon N.V. has named Shawn C.D. Johnson as the new Chief Executive Officer of Aegon Asset Management (Aegon AM). Johnson will assume his role on 23 September, succeeding Bas NieuweWeme, who is stepping down to pursue other career opportunities. NieuweWeme will remain with the company as an advisor until 1 December to ensure a smooth transition.
Johnson, who will also join Aegon’s Executive Committee, brings over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. His most recent role was as CEO of AMP Capital, where he successfully navigated the company through significant strategic changes, including a major restructuring and the sale of its infrastructure debt platform to Ares Management in 2022. Johnson’s tenure at AMP Capital was distinguished by his ability to position the firm for growth in a highly competitive market.
Prior to his role at AMP Capital, Johnson founded Guidon Global LLC, a strategic advisory firm, and spent 15 years at State Street Global Advisors, where he chaired the Investment Committee. His extensive experience in developing global investment strategies and leading complex organisations through transformation has made him a respected figure in the asset management industry.
Aegon CEO Lard Friese expressed confidence in Johnson’s leadership, highlighting his expertise in asset management and strategic consulting. “Shawn’s appointment comes at a natural time for Aegon AM, following the completion of key milestones. His leadership will be crucial in guiding Aegon AM through its next phase of transformation, building on our strong foundation to achieve sustainable, profitable growth,” Friese said.
Johnson, who will be based in the United States but will frequently travel to Aegon’s offices in The Hague and Edinburgh, is enthusiastic about his new role. “I am excited to join Aegon AM and work with the teams to advance our strategy in support of Aegon’s ambition to lead in investment, protection, and retirement solutions,” he said.
Aegon AM managed 318.2 billion euros in assets as of 30 June, operating across four global investment platforms: fixed income, real assets, equities, and multi-asset solutions. The firm’s focus on sustainable and profitable growth aligns with Johnson’s experience in driving transformation and building client-focused organisations.
Friese also acknowledged NieuweWeme’s contributions during his five-year tenure, emphasising his role in evolving Aegon AM into a more client-driven organisation and achieving significant growth across its global platforms. “Bas has been instrumental in moving the organisation towards a global platform that leverages Aegon AM’s international expertise to better serve our clients,” Friese noted.
Reflecting on his time at Aegon AM, NieuweWeme expressed pride in the accomplishments under his leadership and optimism for the future. “This is a natural moment to reflect, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. It’s the right time for a new CEO to take the business forward,” he said.