Lazard Asset Management (LAM) announced today an expansion of its ESG capabilities, with the appointment of Koen Popleu and Monika Kumar as portfolio managers, both joining from Sustainability-focused asset management firm Candriam.

At Candriam, Popleu and Kumar jointly managed the Candriam Climate Action Strategy and Candriam Circular Economy strategies. According to LAM, the new PMs will work together to enhance the company’s growing range of sustainable investing solutions.

Nikita Singhal, Co-Head of Sustainable Investment and ESG, LAM, said:

“The transition to a more sustainable global economy is creating opportunities and risks for investors. These hires support our goal to integrate these considerations into every strategy at LAM while offering sustainability focused investment solutions.”

In their new roles, Popleu and Kumar will build out a team focused on investing themes that support a more sustainable economy, and work alongside LAM’S Co-Heads of Sustainable Investing and ESG, as well as research analysts across the firm’s global investment platforms to enhance the company’s range of sustainable investing solutions. The first new strategy, expected in 2022, will prioritize the implications and opportunities arising from climate change.

Ron Temple, Co-Head Multi-Asset and Head of US Equities, LAM, said:

“Koen and Monika have extensive specialized experience in identifying investment opportunities that will help to create sustainable and long-term value for clients. We are excited to add Koen and Monika to our growing sustainable investment team.”