UN-supported leading responsible investing organization Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) announced today the appointment of David Atkin as its new CEO.

The Principles for Responsible Investment were established by a group of investor signatories in 2006, supported by the United Nations, to aid investors in integrating ESG factors into the investment process, and establishing a set of specific, voluntary and aspirational principles for investors to follow. The initiative has grown to more than 4,300 signatories, representing over $121 trillion assets under management.

Atkin brings extensive investment industry experience to the role, having served as CEO for asset owners Cbus Super Fund, ESSSuper, and Just Super in Australia. Most recently he served as Deputy CEO for investment house AMP Capital, and he previously served as a board member of PRI from 2009 – 2015.

Martin Skancke, PRI Chair, commented:

“After an extensive global search, PRI is very pleased to appoint David Atkin as CEO. David is a passionate and authentic leader with a deep understanding of mission-driven organisations, and a highly experienced and effective manager. David brings a strong understanding of the needs of PRI’s signatories to the organisation, with a sophisticated knowledge of the priorities and management of asset owners gained from his time in the investment industry.”

Atkin will take over the CEO role in December from current CEO Fiona Reynolds. Reynolds, who has been with the PRI since 2013, announced in June that she had chosen to step down from the role. She will stay on in an advisory capacity until early in the New Year to ensure a seamless transition.

Atkin said:

“I am very excited to be given this opportunity to lead the PRI in its next phase of meeting the needs of its broad and diverse signatory base. Responsible investment has entered the mainstream and today, for the first time, the majority of investors around the world recognise the importance of incorporating ESG factors into their investment and ownership activities.

“I look forward to working with the Board and our talented team around the world to ensure that the PRI continues to provide the necessary support to enable our signatories to implement the six principles for responsible investment. Now more than ever, these principles play a critical role in helping institutional investors meet the needs of their beneficiaries, customers and the global community.”

 Reynolds added:

“I am delighted that a leader of David’s calibre and experience will take over as PRI CEO. I have known David for more than 20 years, and he is a natural leader who is passionate about sustainable investing. He has incredibly strong knowledge and experience of the powerful role investors can play as stewards of capital, and will be an asset to PRI as it continues to grow. It has been a privilege to lead the PRI for the past nine years, and as I relocate to Australia, wish David every success in the role. He and I will be working closely together to ensure a smooth transition.”