HESTA confirms deputy chief investment officer

The $102 billion industry super fund has appointed its first deputy chief investment officer, promoting from within.

Jeff Brunton has been named in the newly created role, which he will perform in tandem with his existing responsibilities as head of portfolio management.

Brunton has been with HESTA since July 2021, having previously served as deputy chief investment officer at AMP Capital. He's also previously worked as chief investment officer of AMP Life, and spent close to 16 years in a variety of investment roles at QIC.

His new position was effective March 30. He was also reappointed to the board of the Australian Sustainable Finance Institute around the same time.

HESTA chief investment officer Sonya Sawtell-Rickson said the deputy investment chief role was created both in recognition of Brunton's contributions and the need for the team to evolve.

"Congratulations to Jeff on his well-earned appointment as deputy chief investment officer. The new role recognises his outstanding contribution to HESTA's investment management function and leadership, as well as the evolution of our team as we navigate an increasingly complex global environment," she said.

"This appointment strengthens HESTA's senior leadership bench and will support our engagement with companies locally and globally as we strive to improve retirement outcomes for members..."