Ewins joined Columbia Threadneedle through the acquisition of BMO GAM EMEA in 2021, having worked with BMO and its predecessor companies since 1996.
He has been involved in the management of Global Smaller Companies for more than 26 years and lead manager since August 2005.
Columbia Threadneedle shutters CT Asia Pacific Equity fund
In a stock exchange notice today (15 December), interim chair Graham Oldroyd said the board has engaged with Columbia Threadneedle to ensure a "smooth handover" of Ewins' responsibilities.
With effect from 1 January, Patel will become joint lead fund manager of the trust alongside Ewins, and lead fund manager from 1 May 2024.
Oldroyd said Patel has worked closely with Ewins "for a long period of time", managing assets for the trust for more than 15 years. He is a portfolio manager in the global small cap equity team.
He also joined Columbia Threadneedle through the acquisition of BMO GAM EMEA in 2021, having previously been with BMO since 2007.
European equity portfolio manager Webster exits Columbia Threadneedle
"Peter has made an important contribution in continuing the company's strong record of delivering long-term growth in capital and income and we are confident that Nish, supported by the wider investment resources within Columbia Threadneedle Investments, will build on Peter's achievements," he said.
"I would like to express our warmest thanks to Peter for his commitment and contribution to the company."