Industry fund UniSuper is on the hunt for a new chief investment officer (CIO) after announcing David St John will vacate the position after eight years of service.
“I understand that having built such a depth of professional talent within the investment team, the time has come for David to apply himself to the next challenge of his career,” UniSuper chief executive Terry McCredden said.
“Whilst regretting David’s departure, I am confident that UniSuper remains extremely well equipped to handle the challenging investment environment we are now facing with a sense of confidence and opportunity.”
St John has held the CIO role since May 2001 and during this time was responsible for introducing a number of important initiatives for the super fund.
These included the establishment of an in-house investment committee, introducing the use of alternative investments such as infrastructure to the fund, setting up a governance and delegation framework, and raising awareness of socially responsible investing.
In the past year St John has also served as the fund’s joint chief executive.
“I would like to place on record my appreciation – and that of UniSuper’s board – for David’s contribution. He leaves with our best wishes, and with the fund well placed in all aspects of its investment operations,” UniSuper chair Elizabeth Bryan said.
St John’s last day as CIO is 31 March and chief executive Terry McCredden will take responsibility for the position until a suitable replacement is found.
