Harald Walkate is taking the role, being responsible for driving the firm’s CSR globally, its ESG commitments across its distribution network, its affiliate managers and as part of industry-wide initiatives.
Mr Walkate will report to Beverly Bearden, deputy CEO of Natixis and Christophe Lanne, chief transformation & talent officer, asset & wealth management division.
He will be based in Paris and will also continue on in his current position as an adviser to the Impact Management Project (IMP) on secondment from Aegon.
Mr Walkate joins Natixis from Aegon Asset Management (AAM), the Netherlands, where he was a senior vice-president and global head of responsible investment.
He focused on ESG integration, engagement and impact investment across both Aegon Group and AAM.
Prior to this, he worked on new business initiatives for AAM, developing strategy with a focus on institutional clients.
“Corporate Social Responsibility is a key philosophy for Natixis Investment Managers and a cornerstone of our 2020 New Dimension Plan,” Ms Bearden said.
“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.”
Mr Lanne added that Natixis has found through its own industry research that clients are more cognizant and vocal about investing in companies that have a positive social impact and a good environmental record.
“Natixis Investment Managers is an industry leader in ESG both through its ESG investment expertise and its involvement with global initiatives such as the UN Principles for Responsible Investment, G7 Investor Leadership Network, and World Economic Forum Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders,” Mr Walkate commented.
“I look forward to working in partnership with some of the best investment managers in the industry and supporting their commitment to sustainable investment solutions.”
Sarah Simpkins
Sarah Simpkins is a journalist at Momentum Media, reporting primarily on banking, financial services and wealth.
Prior to joining the team in 2018, Sarah worked in trade media and produced stories for a current affairs program on community radio.
You can contact her on [email protected].
