Aberdeen Standard Investments has appointed a new ESG investment director who will report to the global head of stewardship and ESG investment.
Bill Hartnett will be based in London and tasked with supporting investment colleagues in the emerging markets and Asia Pacific regions.
Hartnett has more than 20 years of industry experience, having previously held several senior roles including head of responsible investment at the Local Government Super – the Australian superannuation fund. At LGS, he was responsible for the responsible investment of AUD 12bn (£6.4bn) pensions assets.
Speaking on his appointment, Hartnett said joining Aberdeen Standard Investments was an exciting prospect.
He said: “The opportunity to apply my experience with an asset manager that has such a strong heritage and commitment to ESG is extremely motivating.
“I am proud to have developed sophisticated ESG-integrated strategies and an extensive and effective active ownership program in my previous roles. I now look forward to working with my Aberdeen Standard Investment colleagues to offer innovative ESG strategies to our existing and prospective clients.”
Hartnett will be reporting to Euan Stirling, global head of stewardship and ESG Investment in his new role. Stirling said he was simply “delighted” with his new signing.
“As an active investment manager, engagement continues to be at the heart of our approach and it is important for us to influence the standards of governance,” he explained.
“With Bill’s depth of knowledge and experience, he is a strong addition to the team and will be invaluable in helping develop our expertise in emerging markets and Asia Pacific.”
