HESTA appoints GM Quant Solutions & Risk

HESTA has announced the appointment of Michael Kollo to the newly-created role of general manager - quantitative solutions & risk.

Kollo will join the $46 billion industry super fund from his Sydney-based role as chief quantitative strategist and deputy head of research - Rosenberg Equities at AXA Investment Managers.

Previously, Kollo was the head of emerging market quantitative research at Renaissance Asset Managers, and, before this, was a quantitative portfolio manager at Fidelity International.

HESTA chief investment officer, Sonya Sawtell-Rickson, said of his appointment: "Michael brings extensive knowledge and experience in quantitative techniques that can enhance our investment process and is at the leading edge of big data innovations."

She added: "Michael will help us to leverage large and varied data sets, use econometric and machine learning techniques that will support us to continue delivering strong investment returns for members in the future."

Kollo, who starts his new role on 30 July 2018, said he is "excited to be joining HESTA to help shape and deliver the transformation of the Fund's investment capability."

Editor's note: A spokesperson for AXA Investment Managers said that the firm does not "anticipate a replacement of the chief research strategist role in its current form and will likely use this opportunity to further leverage Rosenberg's deep bench of investment, technology and research professionals.