Aflac Incorporated announced the establishment of its new subsidiary Aflac Asset Management LLC (branded as Aflac Global Investments) as part of the broader conversion of the Aflac Japan branch to a subsidiary, which is expected to take place as early as April 1, 2018. Eric M. Kirsch has been named president of Aflac Asset Management LLC, while continuing to serve in his role as executive vice president and global chief investment officer. Additionally, the company created a subsidiary of Aflac Asset Management LLC called Aflac Asset Management Japan Ltd. Hideto Yamamoto has been named president of Aflac Asset Management Japan Ltd., while continuing to serve in his role as senior vice president and chief investment officer of Aflac Japan, reporting to Eric Kirsch.

Aflac Global Investments will maintain its organizational structure and continue in its role within Aflac as the entity that manages the general account investment portfolios of Aflac Japan and Aflac U.S. 

Commenting on the announcement, Aflac Incorporated Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Frederick J. Crawford said: "The expertise, knowledge and leadership that has guided Aflac Global Investments over the last six years has been very instrumental in shaping the success of Aflac over this period. The creation of these asset management subsidiaries further enables Eric, Yamamoto-san and the entire Aflac Global Investments team to continue managing the portfolios of Aflac's subsidiaries and delivering the high level of service that benefits Aflac and all our constituents."