Tasplan names new Chief Investment Officer

Tasplan has announced the appointment of David Stuart as the $9 billion super fund's new chief investment officer.

Stuart, who has nearly 40 years' experience in the investment industry, was previously the lead consultant advising Tasplan for over a decade in his role as chief strategist for Mercer in the Pacific region. A former partner in Mercer's Wealth business, Stuart also served as chair of Mercer's Australian and Global Dynamic Asset Allocation Committees.

Before joining Mercer, Stuart worked in a variety of roles in the industry, including regional CIO for HSBC Asset Management, where he was responsible for all investment teams across the Asia Pacific region. He has also held senior investment roles at Prudential Portfolio Managers, Norwich Union and Victorian Funds Management Corporation.

In welcoming him to Tasplan, chair Naomi Edwards said: "David's extensive experience in senior investment management places him perfectly to oversee Tasplan's portfolio as the fund continues to grow."

She added: "The expertise and understanding of dynamic asset allocation David demonstrated during his time at Mercer, one of the largest investment advisors in the world, will no doubt assist Tasplan in continuing to deliver excellent returns for our members."

A spokesperson said the appointment is for a six month period given the MOU Tasplan has entered with MTAA Super to investigate the opportunity of a merger.

Stuart succeeds former CIO Ian Lundy who announced his departure in March 2019.