Credit giant Ares hires new partner

Ares Management, the Los Angeles-based alternative asset manager, has recruited Will Farrant from Credit Suisse to serve as a partner within its credit group. Farrant held the position of head of asset finance for Asia Pacific at Credit Suisse prior to the move, according to the Australian Financial Review's Street Talk column. The appointment represents a targeted effort by Ares to deepen its bench strength in regional credit markets and enhance its local origination capabilities.

The hire is part of a broader pattern of talent acquisition at Ares focused on its Asia credit platform. The firm has simultaneously strengthened this division through other recent appointments, including EG Morse, who joined the Hong Kong-based role after serving as co-head of China and head of China global markets at Goldman Sachs, and Gabriel Fong, who was appointed as partner to the Asia credit platform.

Farrant's move from Credit Suisse aligns with wider industry dynamics as major global banks continue rationalization efforts and alternative credit platforms expand their competitive positioning. Ares operates under a partnership model emphasizing collaboration between senior leaders and emerging talent in an entrepreneurial environment. The firm has established itself as a significant player in private credit, with reported assets under management in the private credit space reflecting substantial institutional demand for alternative lending solutions across developed and emerging markets.

The appointment signals Ares' commitment to capturing deal flow in Asia's credit markets, where demand for structured financing and asset-backed solutions continues to grow. By elevating Farrant to partner status, Ares underscores the strategic importance of this regional expansion and provides senior-level continuity for clients and counterparties transitioning from traditional banking relationships.