First Sentier appoints ESG lead

Yasmine Raso

Senior Journalist, Financial Newswire

12 October 2022

First Sentier Investors has bolstered its Australian Equities Growth team with the appointment of Kristen Le Mesurier to the newly created role of Head of ESG for the division.

Le Mesurier brings professional expertise and experience in leading firm approaches and strategies for environmental, social and governance (ESG) engagement, most recently at Platypus Asset Management and previously at AMP Capital as a portfolio manager for a range of ethical funds.

She also managed global initiatives on climate change and modern slavery, including the Woodside engagement for Climate Action 100+.

“I’m driven by a desire to actively engage with companies on behalf of end investors. We have an opportunity to use our seat at the table to facilitate real change and that’s my real passion,” Le Mesurier said.

“I am excited about working in an asset manager with the scale and commitment to make a difference on the issues that matter to Australians, whether that be climate change, modern slavery, gender diversity or any of the other big issues.

“I’m really pleased the Australian equities growth team at First Sentier is as committed to tackling these challenges as I am.”

She will commence in the new role on 17 October.

“Kristen will be responsible for the integration of ESG across all of the First Sentier Australian Equities Growth funds, as well as the team’s active engagement agenda,” Dushko Bajic, Head of Australian Equities, Growth at First Sentier, said.

“She will work to ensure the Australian equities growth team is leading the industry in the integration of climate change, modern slavery and gender diversity into our investment process.”