Talvest Fund Management announced portfolio manager changes, effective May 1, to two fixed income funds.

Mark Kanar, vice president, Fixed Income, TAL Global Asset Management, is the new lead manager of Talvest High Yield Bond Fund. Jean Charbonneau, vice president, International Bonds, TAL Global Asset Management, has been appointed the lead manager of Talvest Global Bond RSP Fund.

Kanar, a 12-year veteran in the Canadian debt market, replaces former manager, John Braive, who was recently appointed vice chairman of TAL Global Asset Management, but will stay an integral part of the fixed income team behind the fund. With Kanar as lead manager, the fund will remain best suited for investors seeking a high level of current income, liquidity, long-term capital growth and greater diversification, particularly in periods of market volatility.

Kanar brings over 12 years of experience in below investment grade fixed income securities to the management of Talvest High Yield Bond Fund. During his tenure at a major financial services company, Kanar managed a high-yield bond fund with a four-star rating from Globefund (as at March 31, 2002). Prior to this position, Kanar was responsible for credit analysis and a loan portfolio at a Canadian Chartered bank for four years.

Kanar is a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Financial Analyst.

Charbonneau, who had a significant role in managing Talvest Global Bond RSP Fund before the appointment, replaces portfolio manager Denis Senécal, who will be leaving to pursue other career opportunities. Under Charbonneau’s guidance, the fund will continue to be well suited for Canadian investors who want to preserve capital in Canadian dollar terms and enhance fixed-income returns by investing in the world’s best bond markets.

Since he joined TAL in 1997, Charonneau has been a member of the International Bond team, responsible for global fixed income fundamental analysis and research. He has also been instrumental in the development and management of international bond mandates. Prior to joining TAL, Charbonneau was an international fixed income representative at Whalen, Beliveau & Associates and Obligations Montreal Bonds. From 1988 to 1993, he was Chief Trader and Bond Strategist at the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec. Charbonneau began his career as a Bond Trader at the Montreal Exchange (from 1983 to 1984) and Desjardins Trust (between 1984 and 1988).

Charbonneau holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) and Masters of Business Administration.