This new scholarship is designed specifically for current and aspiring fund Chief Investment Officers. Recognising the significant role fund CIOs play as business leaders in their own right, the scholarship is intended to provide a senior investment professional with the opportunity to develop skills in a general management (non-investment) discipline.
Made possible with the support of KPMG, the scholarship covers full-costs associated with return business-class travel, tuition and accommodation for the period of the executive program.
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2011 LSE Scholarship Recipient
Andrew Major: General Manager, Investments - HESTA
Why did you apply?
I applied because of the prestigious reputation the London School of Economics and the week-long study program suited me perfectly. Finding time to pursue further study is difficult, and I saw this as a perfect opportunity to improve my knowledge and skills through a concentrated course of study and as a way to strengthen (and grow) my networks.
What Program did you do (& why)?
I participated in the Climate Change - Economics & Governance program because I wanted to gain a broader appreciation for the global climate change dynamic and alternative approaches being pursued around the world to addressing the issue of climate change Ultimately, I wanted to become a more informed investor (by gaining a more detailed understanding of the investment risks and opportunities presented by climate change) and an advocate for the implementation of an appropriate long term policy framework in Australia.
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What was the highlight?
A definite highlight for me was the quality of the program and expertise of the lecturers. Learning from people who are at the top in their field, and heavily involved in the creating the policy and regulatory frameworks in the UK, was outstanding. They were insightful, engaging and the program content covered all relevant topics in the right level of detail. Having a diverse range of international participants in the Program was also a huge benefit. I learnt a lot from talking to them about their roles and the challenges and opportunities they face on a day-to-day basis.
How has the program benefited you in your day to day role?
From an investment perspective, climate change is part of the broader assessment of ESG risks and opportunities in our investment portfolios, and the program has given me a better insight into the status of international and national efforts to address the impacts of climate change.The program also reinforced to me that institutional investors such as super funds have perhaps the longest-term perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change, given the long time period over which member capital is managed, and this gives us a unique voice in the climate change debate.
Do you have any tips for those wanting to apply?
I would encourage people to apply. Completing the application form was easy, getting there was easy and participating in the program was stimulating. It was one of the best things I have done to further my knowledge outside of formal study. I can't fault the experience. Thank you FEAL and KPMG for continuing to support the leaders in Super!
