Professional services, consulting and investment solutions provider Mercer announced today a significant expansion in its global sustainable investment team, increasing capabilities to support clients in meeting their sustainability goals by 30%. The company also announced the appointment of Sarika Goel to the newly created role of Global Head of Sustainable Investment Research.

Mercer stated that the expansion comes as it is seeing a “surge in investor interest in funds that seek to deliver strong and sustainable investment returns by positioning for the transition to an economy with low or net zero carbon emissions as well as other sustainable investment trends.” Growth initiatives include new hires to the global sustainable investment team in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Switzerland, US and UK.

Helga Birgden, Global Business Leader, Sustainable Investment, Mercer said:

“As the world experiences seismic environmental and societal changes, we are committed to helping our clients consider how these shifts impact their portfolios. Through our forward-looking research on the impact of climate change and on sustainability in investments, as well as our accompanying advice and solutions, we are supporting clients in pursuing better investment outcomes.” 

Goel joined Mercer in 2010, and has been serving as Responsible Investment Manager Research, leading the firm’s coverage of sustainable themed investment strategies within listed equities. She has also served as Co-Chair of the Vine – Mercer’s Network promoting gender diversity.

Jo Holden, Mercer’s Global Head of Investment Research, said:

“Sarika has been instrumental in driving the leadership and guidance that Mercer provides on sustainability in manager research. In her new role she will drive the agenda for manager research coverage of investment strategies across asset classes focused on sustainable development, climate transition, impact investment and stewardship. Sarika also will lead the development of thought leadership related to Mercer’s sustainable investment research agenda.”