Chris Gootkind will soon join Boston-based Loomis, Sayles & Co.’s fixed income group as the director of credit research and credit strategist.

Gootkind will lead Loomis Sayles’ 37-person credit research group, according to a statement. He will be responsible for ensuring that research is effectively and efficiently developed and delivered into the investment process.

"We are recognized in the industry for our best-in-class credit research and we believe Chris’ talents and vision will continue to enhance our research capabilities as well as our reputation," said Jae Park, chief investment officer, fixed income. "Chris’ extensive research, investment and portfolio management experience make him an excellent match for this leadership role."

Gootkind has 29 years of fixed income investment experience and most recently was an associate partner and credit portfolio manager at Wellington.