Economy

New chief executive unveiled for sustainable investment trade body

Published

12 years ago

April 17, 2013

Blue & Green Tomorrow

The UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF) has unveiled Simon Howard as its new chief executive, replacing Penny Shepherd.

Howard, who has held senior roles at Liverpool Victoria, Friends Provident and 3i Asset Management, has experience in the sustainable finance sector through his role as head of sustainable financial markets at Forum for the Future.

UKSIF chair Martin Clarke said, “It is a testament to the importance of responsible investment today and to UKSIF’s role in the field that we have been able to attract an executive of Simon’s calibre as its next chief executive.”

Howard’s predecessor, Shepherd, boasts eight years of service at UKSIF’s helm since rejoining the organisation in 2005.

Under her leadership, UKSIF, and indeed the sustainable investment sector in the UK, has made great strides forward, with green and ethical retail funds more than tripling in size since she was awarded an MBE in 2000 for “services to sustainable economic development and socially responsible investment”.

She spoke to Blue & Green Tomorrow for The Guide to Sustainable Investment 2013 about how now was a “time of change and innovation and opportunity”.

When asked about how to make sustainable investment mainstream, she said, “It’s very easy to underestimate the progress that has been made so far.

“But ultimately, as in any other area, private investors and their advisers have the ability to encourage development in the industry by the investment choices they make.”

Howard takes over from Shepherd on May 7. She will remain at UKSIF in an advisory capacity until June.

Speaking about his new role, Howard said, “UKSIF is recognised globally as a leading champion for sustainable investment and finance.

“I am delighted to join this highly regarded association and look forward to working with UKSIF’s board and members to build on its track record.”