Long-serving ISA CEO to join IFM Investors

IFM Investors has announced the appointment of David Whiteley to the newly-created role of global head, external relations, effective 1 September 2018.

In this role, Whiteley will lead the firm's public policy agenda internationally and will have global responsibility for the firm's relationships with government, media, shareholders and industry groups. Central to this role will be an emphasis on directing IFM Investors' global responsible investment initiatives.

He will join from Industry Super Australia (ISA), where he is currently CEO, a role he has held for the last 12 years.

Previously, Whiteley served as a member of the Investment Advisory board of IFM Investors. He has also served as a director of HESTA and the Superannuation Trust of Australia (STA), and as an alternate director of AustralianSuper.

Commenting on his appointment at IFM, CEO, Brett Himbury said: "Mr. Whiteley's track record of championing strong public policy outcomes for Australia's industry fund investors will contribute to IFM Investors' capacity to act as responsible long-term stewards, investing in economic and intellectual capital. This will allow the firm to build and deliver scale to meet the global needs of our institutional investor base, but also serve to expand IFM Investors' global presence and ultimately the people and communities we seek to serve."

Commenting on his departure at ISA, chair, Peter Collins said: "Under David's stewardship, ISA has developed into what is indisputably the best policy, lobbying and campaign organisation in our industry. On behalf of the board and ultimately on behalf of our six million members, I thank David for his unswerving focus on evidence based public policy and for his incredible leadership."

The recruitment process to appoint Whiteley's successor at ISA will commence shortly.