Q&A with IOOF's new Head of Managed Fund Research
Miriam Herold has stepped into the new role of head of managed fund research at IOOF as part of a restructure that has seen the IOOF Research function separate its direct equities function from the managed funds research role. Miriam tells us what she's most looking forward to in the new role and her goals for the first 12 months. She also shares her impressive secret skill and names the woman she most admires.
Miriam Herold has stepped into the new role of head of managed fund research at IOOF as part of a restructure that has seen the IOOF Research function separate its direct equities function from the managed funds research role. Miriam tells us what she's most looking forward to in the new role and her goals for the first 12 months. She also shares her impressive secret skill and names the woman she most admires.
What are you most looking forward to in the new role?
I have visibility across all asset classes in my new role, which will enable the team to have a co-ordinated approach with priorities and scheduling of Fund reviews. It is very exciting identifying new investment managers with differentiated investment strategies and approaches and being able to make these available to our planners and their clients. A recent example of this was Antipodes, which was launched by Jacob Mitchell (ex Platinum) last year. We were familiar with Jacob from his prior role and his excellent track record and were very impressed by his new investment strategy and were able to move quickly on this and make it available to our planners.
What are your biggest goals for the first 12 months?
We have a representative on each of our dealer groups' investment committees and are very keen to work with the planners to identify where there may be gaps in the investment options available to them and work to provide Funds to fill these gaps. We recently undertook a review of the Ethical/SRI space, encompassing Equity Funds, Bond Funds and ETFs - this was initiated as a result of planner feedback of demand in this area from clients.
...and your greatest challenge/s?
The markets and macro environment are by their nature very unpredictable and there are many looming issues which could create issues in the markets such as the upcoming referendum on a British exit from the EU. When these geopolitical issues flare up the fundamentals of good investment strategies are often ignored and it can be a challenging time for investors.
Who do you admire and how have they influenced your life/work?
I really admire Gail Kelly, she is a fantastic role model for females in a traditionally male dominated industry and was hugely successful running one of the country's largest banks. She managed all of this as well as successfully raising triplets, which particularly resonates with me as I am a mother of young twins.
What is the best advice you've been given?
Always remain flexible and don't be afraid of change if required.
Where did you grow up?
In the St George area of Sydney.
What was your very first job?
I worked in a supermarket while I was at High School.
Do you have a secret skill/hidden talent?
I love long distance running, especially off road on trails. I recently completed my first ultramarathon - a 50km trail race in the Blue Mountains, which was tough but spectacular.
Is there a particular cause or charity that you support?
Our IOOF Foundation provides grants that support Australian not-for-profit organisations that work with disadvantaged youth through to aged care. It's great to be part of an organisation that supports the wider community and makes a real difference to those in need.
