According to informed sources, Ares Management aims to bolster its operations in the Asia-Pacific region and has initiated a search for a partner-level executive to join its leadership team.

The company has reportedly engaged a recruitment firm to approach several potential candidates. While the final role will depend on the selected individual, the new hire is expected to lead Ares' Asian credit business, similar to other partners within the firm.

This recruitment drive comes as Ares has experienced exponential growth in the Asia-Pacific region over the past five years, driven by both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. The company's 2020 acquisition of distressed debt specialist SSG Capital Holdings marked its formal entry into Asia's credit market.

In 2022, Ares further deepened its regional presence by acquiring AMP Capital's infrastructure debt platform in Australia. More recently, the firm purchased Crescent Point Capital and took control of several funds managed by Indonesia's Northstar Group to enhance its private equity investment capabilities.

Sources indicate that Edwin Wong, Ares' current Asia credit head and co-founder of SSG, has no plans to leave the company. The ideal candidate for the new role is expected to have expertise in credit-related areas, including direct lending and special situations.

Ares declined to comment on the matter.