Russell appoints Nicole Connolly as head of alternatives

Russell Investments has appointed Nicole Connolly as head of alternatives advice in Australia.

Connolly will be responsible for undertaking due diligence on alternative investment strategies including funds and fund of funds, as well as working with Russell’s clients on formulating and implementing alternative investment programs.

Connolly joins Russell from Telstra Super where her most recent role was portfolio manager — alternative assets. She has more than 10 years’ experience in the alternative assets space across all major asset classes and brings extensive knowledge of the superannuation and investment industry, having also previously worked at AMP Capital Investors.

“Expertise in less traditional strategies is becoming increasingly important as investors consider alternative assets in the wake of the [global financial crisis],” said Greg Liddell, head of investment consulting for Russell Investments.

“Connolly’s appointment represents a significant investment in the skills and experience necessary to deliver a more innovative approach towards alternative investments,” he said.

The appointment follows Marty Lamb’s recent relocation to Sydney from Singapore to assume the role of director, Asia Pacific real estate investments. The move is part of Russell’s strategy to provide investors with opportunities to increase exposure to illiquid alternative investments, such as unlisted global property, which Russell believes are approaching the end of their valuation cycle, the company said.

Russell is actively recruiting for a property and private equity research analyst to support Lamb and the global alternatives team.