UBS equities co-head Chris Williams departs

UBS co-head of equities Chris Williams is departing the firm to take a break from the industry.

UBS co-head of equities Chris Williams. Picture: Britta Campion

UBS co-head of equities Chris Williams is departing the firm to take a break from the industry, sources told The Australian.

Staff were informed of Williams’ exit - a 15 year UBS operative - on Tuesday. It leaves Steven Boxall as the sole boss of UBS equities in Australia.

“Our equities business in Australia is a powerhouse, the envy of our competitors and has performed exceptionally well on a consistent basis, even in challenging market conditions, which reflects the strong leadership of the business and the dedication of our entire team to servicing our clients,” a UBS memo sent to staff by Australia boss Matthew Grounds and Asia Pacific boss Taichi Takahashi said.

“Chris has made a decision to spend time with his family after more than 20 years in the industry, before he embarks on his next adventure.”

Mr Williams started his career at the ASX as an investor relations manager before joining UBS in 2004 as an analyst.

As a research analyst, he covered the big banks and diversified financials before becoming head of research in 2012, then co-head of equities for Australia and New Zealand five years ago.

UBS is sitting in first place this year on Dealogic’s league tables for equity capital markets work, followed by JPMorgan and Citigroup.

So far, however, this year has been light on for new sharemarket listings.