David Russell, former Head of Responsible Investment at the UK’s largest pension fund, the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), is to take over the role of Chair of the Transition Pathway Initiative (TPI). He replaces Adam Matthews, Chief Responsible Investment Officer at the Church of England Pensions Board, who is stepping down in September. Jake Barnett, Investments’ Managing Director for Sustainable Investment Strategies at US-based Wespath Benefit, has also been appointed to be Chair of the TPI Strategic Advisory Committee. Russell said: “Given the urgent need to address climate change, the work that the investors will do with the analysis provided by the newly created TPI Global Climate Transition Centre, at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), is crucial for investment decision-making and stewardship activities. I look forward to playing a key role in supporting the TPI as it continues to expand the breadth and depth of its analysis to be at the forefront of meeting investor needs.” Dr Stephen Barrie, Deputy Chief Responsible Investment Officer of the Church of England Pensions Board, will continue to ensure that the Pensions Board plays a strategic role as its representative on the TPI Board and in the Strategic Advisory Committee. TPI is now backed by investors with over US$50 trillion in assets under management.
