Global asset manager American Century Investments announced today the formation of a new sustainable investment council, along with senior appointments including Matt Oldroyd as Head of Corporate Sustainability, and Patricia Ribeiro as Chair of the new council.

Jonathan Thomas, American Century President and Chief Executive Officer, said:

“Sustainability isn’t just something we practice; it is part of who we are as a company and as global citizens. With an ownership structure that directs over 40% of its profits to fund medical research, we attract employees motivated to make a difference and develop investment teams who make Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria a fundamental part of their analysis. Matt and Patricia’s appointments as leaders of our corporate sustainability efforts and our new sustainable investment council, respectively, demonstrate our commitment to evolving and growing in this important area.”

According to American Century Investments, the new council will consist of a select group of portfolio managers from across the firm’s disciplines, led by Ribeiro, aiming to engage with clients on their ESG investing needs, while partnering with the firm’s dedicated ESG and investment stewardship team to further leverage its expertise, augment training and enhance investment capabilities. 

Ribeiro has been with the firm since 2006, and currently serves as Senior Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager, leading a seven-member team overseeing both ESG-integrated and impact strategies focused on emerging markets.

American Century Investments Chief Investment Officer Victor Zhang said:

“Patricia is recognized by clients around the world as a leader in both ESG and impact investing. She brings credibility and authenticity to our ESG investing practices, coupled with significant industry experience.”

Oldroyd has been with American Century Investments for over 20 years, most recently serving as Senior VP, Head of Client Portfolio Management, managing a team of client portfolio managers communicating investment strategies and results to the firm’s clients and investors.

Thomas said:

“Corporate sustainability and ESG investing are fast-evolving topics around the globe; Matt will be responsible for understanding the external environment and funneling insights back into our firm.”

In his new role of Head of Corporate Sustainability, Oldroyd will champion sustainability initiatives that support the firm’s brand and culture by working with leaders across the firm in human resources, legal, distribution and marketing, facilities, and in concert with American Century’s diversity, equity & inclusion (DE&I) committee, sustainable investment council and ESG and investment stewardship team. According to the firm, he will support American Century’s goals to be a responsible corporate citizen, with direct financial impact on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #3 (good health and well-being).

Zhang added:

“We believe our portfolio managers are in the best position to engage with clients on their evolving ESG needs and objectives, understand the practical application of sustainable investing and drive best practices throughout their teams. We anticipate continuing to grow and add talent around sustainable investing.”