Janus Henderson appoints new Head of ESG Investments

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Janus Henderson Investors (NYSE: JHG, ASX: JHG) has announced the appointment of Paul LaCoursiere, CFA, as Global Head of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Investments

Joining on 6 January 2021, Mr. LaCoursiere will bring more than 20 years of investment research capability to the firm and drive the integration of ESG across its strategies.

With this newly-created role, Janus Henderson continues to invest in its ability to provide our clients with market-leading risk adjusted investment returns, this includes a focus on the ESG principles that the firm believes support long-term sustainable business practices.

Mr. LaCoursiere will be based in Janus Henderson’s London office and report to Enrique Chang, Global Chief Investment Officer. Mr. LaCoursiere joins from Aviva Investors, where he has held various roles since 2014; most recently Global Head of ESG Research.  Mr LaCoursiere has held senior portfolio manager, client portfolio manager, and senior fixed income strategist roles with Chicago Equity Partners, Barclays Global Investors, and Munder Capital Management.

Enrique Chang, Global Chief Investment Officer at Janus Henderson, said: “We believe there is a correlation between the evaluation of ESG factors and identifying companies that will grow and succeed in the future. With Paul’s hire, Janus Henderson is demonstrating how seriously we take ESG considerations. Paul augments our existing strong capabilities with his experience and leadership skills which will further embed ESG capabilities within our investment philosophies”.

Matt Gaden, Head of Australia, Janus Henderson Investors, said, “I believe the transition to a low-carbon economy is a trend that will continue. During COVID, we have been given an accidental glimpse into a low-carbon future. Cities have been quieter and with a marked reduction in air travel we have seen a significant drop in air pollution levels. In Australia, we are also witnessing more investors and those who advise them, demand investment portfolios that reflect their broader values.

“Janus Henderson has a 30-year history in sustainable investing and we are continually scanning the horizon to help protect our clients’ wealth from risk – whether that’s political, environmental, social or economic in nature, or even from risk on a governance front. Paul’s appointment is a valuable addition to our expanding ESG capability and our commitment to consideration of ESG across all asset classes and as a firm.” he concluded.