On Wednesday, the super fund announced that Scott Connolly – who has been a director at TelstraSuper since 2016 – is one of four seeking to join the UN-backed board which “commits asset owners and investment managers to integrating environmental, social and governance considerations into their investment practices and ownership policies”.
TelstraSuper said the submission underlines the important role Australia’s superannuation sector plays in the future of responsible investing, while Mr Connolly also welcomed the opportunity, saying that PRI’s powerful voice for implementing responsible investment is crucial as economies begin to move out of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have a unique opportunity and responsibility to make lasting change,” Mr Connolly said.
“Sharpening our focus in social factors, addressing the imperative of the climate emergency, seeing the sustainable development goals universally adopted and better understanding our global interconnectedness and vulnerabilities are critical priorities to achieve the PRI’s vision of making responsible investment mainstream.”
Mr Connolly has over 20 years’ experience in the private and public sector and has previously served as assistant secretary of the Australian Council of Trade Unions.
Connolly is also an advisory member of UTS Centre for Business and Social Innovation, a member of the National Workplace Relations Consultative Committee, and the Australian Industry Standards Expert Panel on Digital Transformation.
TelstraSuper has also been a signatory of the PRI since 2007.
CEO Chris Davies said the company is excited about the potential appointment of Mr Connolly, who will bring experience, knowledge and network that would be advantageous for the PRI Board.
“We are excited by the prospect of Scott joining the PRI Board to both shape the future direction and strategy of the industry and to give TelstraSuper and our members a unique insight into the future of responsible investing,” he said.
Voting for the board roles are open to PRI members now.
