Alternative credit manager Octagon Credit Investors LLC announced Wednesday the appointment of John Zilko as head of investor solutions and business development, reporting to COO Douglas McDermott.
The firm—owned by insurance asset manager Conning—manages $31 billion in assets across collateralized loan obligations, broadly syndicated loans, structure credit, multi-asset credit and direct lending strategies in the below-investment-grade corporate credit and private credit markets.
“John has a proven track record of building and leading institutional client businesses at some of the most respected firms in our industry. His deep credit market expertise, strategic perspective, and collaborative approach make him an exceptional addition to Octagon,” Octagon CEO Gretchen Lam said in a statement. “As we continue to expand our business, John will play an important role in identifying new areas of demand, growing our client base, and advancing our commercial strategy.”
Zilko previously was head of Americas investor coverage at CPP Investments-owned credit manager Antares Capital and had been head of U.S. institutional sales at PineBridge Investments.
“It is a rare opportunity to join a firm of Octagon’s caliber,” Zilko said in a statement. “Octagon has built an enduring franchise over more than three decades, grounded in disciplined investing and longstanding client relationships. The breadth of the firm’s credit capabilities creates significant potential to serve both existing and new investors in new ways.:
Zilko earned a bachelor of arts degree in finance from the University of South Florida.