Aware Super elevates data and AI with new promotions

Artificial intelligence (AI)and data analytics are becoming increasingly central to investment decision-making, with Aware Super reshaping its investment leadership to strengthen how technology informs portfolio strategy.

The $248 billion superannuation fund has appointed Murray Keir to the newly created role of head of investment innovation, while Ganesh Suntharam has been promoted to head of systematic, overseeing its internal systematic equities platform.

The promotions, effective immediately, reflect the fund's focus on applying data, technology and AI across its investment operations as it seeks opportunities to improve long-term outcomes for its 1.3 million members.

Aware Super chief investment officer Simon Warner said technology could strengthen investment decisions without displacing the judgment required to navigate markets.

"Data and AI won't replace investment judgement, but they will sharpen it. In a world that's changing this quickly, the edge goes to investors who adapt fastest, and we intend to be one of them," Warner said.

Keir will lead the integration of data, technology and process innovation across the investment function. He previously headed systematic equities at Aware Super, where he led the fund's internal platform managing more than $25 billion across Australian and international share markets.

Suntharam will take responsibility for that platform, which uses data-driven, rules-based models to invest across domestic and global equities.

Warner said Keir's new position would focus on embedding innovation throughout the investment process, while Suntharam would build on the systematic team's existing capabilities.

"Murray's new role is about bringing innovation, data and technology into every investment decision we make. Change creates opportunity, but only for investors who are ready for it," he said.

"Ganesh inherits a strong systematic business. His job is to build on those foundations, and I have every confidence he will."

The leadership changes follow Aware Super's broader focus on technology and investment capability as the industry considers how emerging tools can support portfolio management and member outcomes.