Investment manager Loomis, Sayles & Company announced today the appointment of Colleen Denzler as Head of ESG.

In her new role, Denzler will advance Loomis Sayles’ ESG initiatives, support sustainability efforts as part of the firm’s own governance, ensure investment teams have access to ESG data and research, and help provide solutions for clients’ increasing ESG needs. Her responsibilities will include refining the firm’s ESG priorities, goals, metrics and criteria, aligning with regulatory ESG requirements, working with investment teams to incorporate ESG considerations into the investment process and determine areas of engagement, and communicating the firm’s sustainability and ESG approach to clients and stakeholders.

Denzler will also serve as a thought leader on material sustainability issues, conduct internal education, and oversee Loomis Sayles’ ESG committee structure to provide strategic support to investment teams.

Loomis Sayles CEO Kevin Charleston said:

“Prioritizing ESG and sustainability – which meaningfully impact the global economy, the financial markets and society at large – is a matter of fiduciary responsibility and good stewardship of clients’ capital. We are fortunate to have a professional of Colleen’s caliber guiding the next phase of the firm’s commitment to integrating ESG considerations into our investment processes as we seek to create long-term value for our clients.”

Denzler joins Loomis Sayles from Smith Capital Investors, where she led ESG integration efforts. She has worked in the asset management industry for over 35 years, holding a number of investment and ESG leadership roles, including serving as Chief Investment Officer of sustainable investment-focused First Affirmative Financial Network, senior Portfolio Manager and Head of Money Markets at American Century Investments, and as Global Head of Fixed Income Strategy at Janus Henderson.

David Waldman, Chief Investment Officer at Loomis Sayles, said:

“Good governance and sustainable business practices are inherent factors in our decision-making as long-term investors who seek to deliver superior long-term, risk-adjusted returns to our clients. Colleen’s extensive background will be an asset as we strive to leverage ESG insights and data in our investment processes and to design products consistent with clients’ ESG objectives.”