Natixis IM makes ESG-focused appointment
Natixis Investment Managers has appointed Harald Walkate as its new head of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social and governance (ESG), where he would be responsible for driving the firm’s ESG commitments across its distribution network and affiliate managers.
Walkate joined the firm from Aegon Asset Management, where he was a senior vice president and global head of responsible investment. Prior to this, he worked on new business initiatives within the firm, and has worked as an advisor to Aegon’s Impact Management Project since 2018.
Deputy chief executive officer, Beverly Bearden, said CSR was a key philosophy at the firm, and was the cornerstone of its 2020 ‘new dimension plan’.
“Harald’s appointment as our first head of CSR and ESG demonstrates our ongoing commitment to drive initiatives that deliver long-term sustainable solutions for clients,” she said.
Christophe Lanne, chief transformation and talent officer, said the firm’s own industry research had shown that clients were more cognisant and vocal about investing in companies that had a positive and social impact and a good environmental record, which led to Walkate’s appointment to the role.
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