Australian Ethical snaps up Ethical Partners co-founder

Australian Ethical has named a new head of equities, appointing veteran wealth manager Nathan Parkin to the role.

In addition to heading the firm’s equities team, Parkin will also be tasked with supporting the development of its global and local equities strategies, product offering, and expansion of distribution activity.

He was a co-founder and served as investment director of Ethical Partners Funds Management, which shuttered in late 2024 after six years in operation.

Parkin was previously deputy head of equities at Perpetual Investments, a role he held for two years, where he managed up to $6.5 billion in Australian equities portfolios.

Boasting more than 30 years in Australian financial markets, Parkin has also served stints at 452 Capital and the ASX.

Australian Ethical chief investment officer Ludovic Theau said Parkin’s appointment represented a “milestone” in its five-year strategy to level-up its investment capability.

“Nathan brings a depth of knowledge and expertise in responsible investment leadership, and his appointment builds on the exceptional talent we already have.

“He will play a critical role in continuing to deliver on our conviction that ethical investment delivers strong long-term performance.”

Parkin for his part said he was excited to join the ethically aligned investment firm whose philosophy “aligns with my belief that capital markets have a critical role in encouraging corporates to further their net zero ambitions”.

This appointment follows Australian Ethical’s acquisition of sustainable fixed Income manager Altius Asset Management and its team of seven, and the appointment of Adam Roberts to the role of Head of Private Markets in mid-2024.

Parkin commences with Aus Ethical on 13 June.