Australian Ethical portfolio manager steps down after 20 years

Yasmine Raso

Senior Journalist, Financial Newswire

25 July 2025

The founding portfolio manager of Australian Ethical’s Emerging Companies Fund, Andy Gracey, has announced his departure after 20 years with the fund manager.

Management of the fund will transfer over to Australian Ethical’s Head of Equities, Nathan Parkin, from the end of September and Gracey will continue with the firm in an advisory role until mid-December.

“Andy has made a valuable contribution to the firm over the past 20 years, and we’re thankful for his dedication and long-standing service. We’re grateful for his commitment to both the firm and our clients, and we wish him all the best in his next endeavour,” Deputy CIO, John Woods, said.

“We’re pleased to have a capable and experienced successor in Nathan, and we’re confident in the continued investment discipline and focus on values that have been hallmarks of our approach.”

The fund has managed to deliver returns of 12.2 per cent per annum since its inception 10 years ago, as of 30 June.

“I’ve enjoyed the past 20 years at Australian Ethical immensely and am proud to have reached this milestone. I have complete confidence in Nathan’s leadership and was thrilled when he accepted the role,” Gracey said.

“I’ll continue to support the business and the team through to my departure in December, and I look forward to working closely with everyone over the next five months.”

Parkin boasts over three decades of Australian investment experience, particularly in managing small- and mid-cap funds. He previously managed approximately $6.5 billion in Australian equities portfolios at Perpetual.

“It’s an honour to carry on Andy’s exceptional management of the Fund,” Parkin said.

“We’re excited by the continuing opportunities for clients in small and micro-caps, utilising our excellent pedigree in researching this part of the market.”