James Andrus has been named Franklin Templeton’s vice-president of sustainability global markets, a newly created leadership position.
In this role, Mr Andrus will oversee the firm’s sustainability and stewardship initiatives, working closely with its global public policy team, and act as a spokesperson with clients, external organisations, policymakers, regulators and internal stakeholders.
Moreover, he will manage Franklin Templeton’s global sustainability strategy team, with professionals located across Europe, Asia, and the United States.
Mr Andrus brings decades of financial markets advocacy and corporate governance experience to the firm, most recently serving as the interim managing investment director for sustainable investing for the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). Here, he led CalPERS’ sustainable investment strategy across its US$443 billion ($655 billion) investment portfolio and advocated for transparency in national and global financial markets.
“James is deeply experienced in corporate governance and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the effective management of financial, human, and natural capital to Franklin Templeton,” said Anne Simpson, Franklin Templeton’s global head of sustainability.
“We are committed to building dedicated resources as the profound evolution and increasing complexities related to sustainable investing continue in the industry globally. I am delighted for James to join our growing team as we accelerate our efforts in this important area.”
Mr Andrus will report to Ms Simpson, who oversees the firm’s overall strategic direction on stewardship and sustainable investment. In turn, she reports to Franklin Templeton chief executive officer and president, Jenny Johnson.
Speaking on his appointment, Mr Andrus said: “I am excited by the opportunity to join Franklin Templeton, a world-renowned global investment firm with dynamic leaders, at an important point in time to focus on sustainability.
“I look forward to adding value by advancing the sustainable investment priorities and contributing directly to global regulation and policy initiatives while emphasising enhanced financial information,” he concluded.
As a member of a number of bodies including the Securities and Exchange Commission, Investor Advisory Committee, Executive Leadership Council, and Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, Mr Andrus is an experienced advocate for asset owners.
Additionally, he is co-chair of the Financial Capital Committee of the International Corporate Governance Network, representing investors overseeing approximately US$70 trillion ($104 trillion).
