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Mirova Kicks Off “Next Phase of Growth” With New US CEO

Zineb Bennani will be responsible for deploying an “ambitious roadmap” as the firm aspires to become a leading impact investor. 

B Corp certified investment manager Mirova is looking to bolster its business for the “next phase of growth” with the appointment of Zineb Bennani as US CEO and Global Head of Business Development. 

The US$8.4 billion AuM sustainable finance-dedicated affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers is looking to accelerate its development in the US market with the selection of Bennani, as well as further enhancing its client experience and supporting Mirova’s growth as a global impact investor. 

Bennani is the firm’s current Chief Operating and Development Officer and will begin her new role in May. She has been with Mirova and in different roles within Natixis Investment Managers for 17 years and previously served as Deputy CIO and Equity Portfolio Manager, Head of Governance Research and Engagement, as well as other investing, research, and client relations roles. 

Bennani told ESG Investor that her time in various roles has given her a “an in-depth vision of all the areas of expertise that feed Mirova’s unique approach”. This experience will allow her to identify growth opportunities to support the acceleration of Mirova’s international development, while meeting investors’ expectations across various markets. 

“Climate and biodiversity are key themes to us, but we also aim at addressing social challenges by seeking for a positive impact on human capital and development themes,” she said. “Our range addresses these challenges on both listed and private assets and covers companies and projects in various sectors, through a holistic approach.” 

Following Zineb’s appointment, Mirova US’ current interim CEO Ritesh Shah will become the firm’s Global Head of Corporate Development.  

Philippe Zaouati, CEO at Mirova, said: “Zineb has been a key person in the development of Mirova since its inception. I am fully confident that she will be able to deploy an ambitious roadmap and support our strategic development at an international level and our ambition to become a global leader in impact investing.” 

US expansion 

The US market is key in raising assets under management for Mirova’s global equities strategy, the expansion of impact investing, and the development of private assets offerings. Mirova’s US division launched in 2017.  

Bennani noted that the firm wants to pursue new areas of investment and additional sources of revenue in the US market. Bennani will be responsible for drafting a fund management and investment opportunities roadmap after conducting a deeper analysis  within the next few months. 

The firm currently invests in roughly 60 US companies that address environmental and/or social issues through its equity and fixed income strategies. Bennani highlighted the firm’s investment in solar energy services firm Sunrun, which is “proactive on inclusion and diversity”, as an example of the type of company Mirova looks to invest in.  

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