BRUNEL PENSION PARTNERSHIP - Key Persons
Before coming to Brunel, Abigail worked as an Executive Assistant and facilities manager aiding CEOs, managing directors and financial directors, primarily at law firms in the UK and Australia. At Brunel, she manages travel bookings for all colleagues, and provides support to the executive team.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Alex's background is in writing, research and communications.
He joined Brunel after five years at St. James's Place Wealth Management, where he worked as Investment Communications Consultant, writing on investing and markets for clients and partners, and developing and delivering new communications campaigns. Prior to St. James's Place, Alex worked as Head of Communications for Somerville College, Oxford, delivering their new website.
Alex has also worked as a journalist in the UK and China, covering both general and financial news, including as a correspondent covering bond markets during the eurozone crisis. As well as articles and chapters, he has also published a book, which came out in 2014.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Senior Portfolio Analyst - Private Markets
Alex joined Brunel in March 2022 following three years working in investment consultancy with experience working (and advising) on investment strategy, responsible investment, research/due-diligence and asset transitioning. He joined the Private Markets team as a Portfolio Analyst to help support across the team with reporting and research.
Alex holds a BA in History from Cardiff University as well as the Investment Management Certificate. He is working towards his CFA charter, having passed his Level One exam in 2021.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Since joining Brunel in January 2018, Alice has held several roles within the company focusing on Brunel's clients and Shareholders. As Stakeholder Officer, Alice coordinates Brunel's engagement with multiple stakeholders, working closely with the CEO, the Chair of the Board, and the Shareholder Non-Executive Director.
As well as representing Brunel as a member of the Diversity Project Steering Committee, Alice is Chair of the Employee Voice Forum and has a focus on Brunel's Corporate Social Responsibility.
Prior to Brunel, Alice graduated from Keele University in 2016 with a Politics BA (Hons). Joining the Foreign & Commonwealth Office after university, Alice developed her administrative and communication skills. During this time, she worked on secondment in the Foreign Minister's Private Office.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Ali has 15 years of administration experience across various sectors. Initially joining Brunel as a Corporate Services Administrator in 2020, she is now an experienced HR Administrator for Brunel.
Before joining Brunel, I worked for many years as a Credit Controller. I have worked with several finance organisation including GE Capital and Allianz insurance. Wanting to expand my knowledge, I attended City of Bristol College and graduated in 2020 with Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Anthony joined Brunel in 2023 from Curo Group, a Bath-based housing association, where he gained valuable management accounting experience. He has over 5 years of experience, which he is eager to apply to Brunel. Anthony has been a member of the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants since May 2022, and has a BSc in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Durham University.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Junior Client Relationship Manager
Before joining Brunel, Bethan worked in the banking sector for over 2 years. Progressing quickly, Bethan worked as a Subject Matter Expert in an unprecedented redress programme, managing projects and establishing new processes. She graduated from the University of Leeds in 2015 with an honours degree in Classical Civilisation.
In February 2020 Bethan relocated to Bristol and joined Brunel as a Client Relationship Analyst. She provides day to day administration and analyst support to the Client Relations team.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Chelsea completed her LLB law degree at the University of Bristol in May 2018. Prior to that she worked for Brunel to help in setting up the operational aspect of the company and continued in her current role with the company on a part-time basis alongside studying for her degree. Before joining Brunel and embarking on her degree, Chelsea worked in the financial services industry and in customer-facing roles for over six years.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Client Relationship Manager
Chris brings 25 years of Financial Services experience to Brunel. Most recently he worked for Northern Trust as an Implementation Manager within the Hedge Fund administration team. Prior to that, Chris spent over 16 years with Citigroup in a range of roles in the Global Custody division.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Responsible Investment Officer
Chris graduated from Imperial College London in 2021 with an MSc in Climate Change, Management and Finance, having previously completed an MA in Economics from the University of Glasgow. During his time at Imperial he worked with the Transition Pathway Initiative where he focused on developing a Carbon Performance methodology for the Chemical Industry. Chris joined Brunel as Responsible Investment Officer to help support the Responsible Investment team with ESG data integration and reporting.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Private Markets
Christian is a Portfolio Manager within the Private Markets Team. Christian has over eight years' experience in the Investment Management industry, spanning advisory, client servicing, distribution, product development and investment support. Christian previously worked at the EAPF as an Investment Officer. Christian holds a Certificate in Financial Planning, the IMC, and is a CFA Level 3 Charterholder.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Listed Markets
Daniel joined Brunel after five years as an Investment Analyst for AXA Framlington where he was responsible for portfolio construction, investment risk and alpha generation support for international equities and multi-asset strategies. Prior to this, Daniel worked in the international portfolio construction team for JPMorgan Private Bank. He began his career at JPMorgan in 2007 as a fixed income valuations specialist. Daniel holds an MSc in Financial Mathematics and a BSc in Mathematics, Statistics & Operational Research. He also holds the IMC and is a CFA® charterholder.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Analyst - Private Markets
Danielle joined Brunel in September 2022 from Bristol Zoological Society, where she held a role with a wide range of responsibilities supporting the directors and the projects team. Prior to that, she worked at Trigon Pensions as an Advisory Services Administrator, working across both the consultancy and investment teams. She joined the Private Markets team as a Portfolio Analyst to provide support with reporting and research across the team.
Danielle graduated from the University of the West of England with a degree in Law in 2015. In 2019, she achieved the Retirement Provision Certificate from the Pensions Management Institute. She will be studying for the Investment Management Certificate in 2023.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
David joined Brunel following 14 years with the Wiltshire Pension Fund, most latterly as Head of Pensions for the £2 billion Fund. In this role, David was the strategic lead responsible directly to the CFO and Pension Committee whilst overseeing the day to day operations of this multi-function service. As a qualified Chartered Management Accountant, his specialist knowledge areas are finance and investments, with significant experience also in HR, ICT, contact management, administration and governance.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Listed Markets
David began his investment career in 2008 after graduating with a BSc (Hons) from Queen Mary University, London. He has primarily worked within Asset Management, most recently as a Portfolio Analyst for Fidelity International. He has completed the Certificate in Investment Management, CIPM, and is a CFA Charterholder.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
David Vickers - Chief Investment Officer
David has extensive experience and a strong track record in multi-asset investing. He was previously at Russell Investments, where he was Managing Director and head of Multi Assets for EMEA, managing a team responsible for £12 billion in AUM across both DB and DC pension schemes.
Prior to that, David was a Partner at Sarasin & Partners, where, as a Multi Asset Fund Manager once again, he provided a bespoke ESG overlay for many of the endowment funds he managed. He had previously worked as Investment Manager at Baring Asset Management.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Chairman
- Chairman of Brightwell
- Independent Chair
Denise has been at the heart of Brunel's development, from its quiet beginnings in 2017 to the friendly, bustling company it is today. Forging better futures by investing for a world worth living in has stood the test of time and resonates with our partners more than ever before. Driven by this broader goal, Denise and her fellow Board members harness their engagement with shareholders and clients to set and deliver Brunel's strategic vision.
Denise was formerly Chair of the LGA's Local Government Pension Committee (LGPC) and served as Board Member on the LGPS Scheme Advisory Board (SAB) from inception to May 2019. She has also served as Co-Chair of the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum (LAPFF).
In another capacity, Denise is Chair of Brightwell and the JPM Chase UK Retirement Plan.
Originally from Canada, where she grew up on a farm, Denise has a BA from Carleton University. She left Canada in 1985 to complete an MBA at INSEAD and subsequently pursued a career in banking at Salomon Brothers, Chase Manhattan and IBJ.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Founder
- Chief Responsible Investment Officer
Faith is currently Chief Responsible Investment Officer for Brunel Pension Partnership and Chair of the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC). These roles enable her to advocate for better appreciation of systemic risk as well as design solutions that embed such risks, like climate change, into the operations of finance and investment, an industry she has served for over 25 years.
Faith's other roles include member of the Ethics Investment Advisory Group for the Church of England National Investing Bodies; member of Investor Advisory Group for ISSB (formerly SASBIAG); Member of the UK Green Taxonomy Advisory Group; and Climate Ambassador for the National Federation of Women's Institutes.
Faith is a founder and formerly its co-chair of the Transition Pathway Initiative and currently NED. She was also the chair of the Reporting and Assessment Advisory Committee for the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI).
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Investment Operations Analyst
Gemma joined Brunel from one of the Clients, the Avon Pension Fund, where she worked within the Investments department as an Assistant Management Accountant for Investment & Custody. During her 4½ years with Avon, Gemma liaised between fund managers and the Custodian to reconcile the monthly positions, managing movement of funds, and reporting quarterly performance. Prior to Avon, Gemma gained 15 years' experience within finance in both the private and public sector, in roles ranging from a Purchase Ledger Clerk to Management Accounts.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Risk & Compliance Analyst
George joined Brunel in 2022 as a Compliance Analyst. He previously worked in compliance for an independent financial advice firm. He gained a First in his History BA from the University of Sussex, graduating in 2021.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
I have many years' experience as an HR professional in various industries and my role at Brunel is to support the team and the business as it develops further.
Job Titles:
- Communications Consultant
Hannah has a built a career helping people know what they need to know, when they need to know it. Whether this has been creating and implementing communications strategies, supporting organisational change or helping customers make informed decisions about mortgage products.
Hannah has joined from St. James's Place Wealth Management where she headed up the Partnership Communications team delivering regular strategic and operational updates across a range of channels and media and supporting the delivery of corporate events.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Private Markets
Jaime leads the Sustainable Infrastructure and Private Equity strategies here at Brunel. He works to deliver excellent financial outcomes and positive impact on the world that Brunel clients live in. Before joining Brunel, Jaime was at Big Society Capital, where he launched the LSE listed Schroders BSC Social Impact Trust.
Jaime has had an impactful career before joining Brunel, co-founding companies such as Xlinks and Faro Energy, being involved in dynamic energy start-ups such as Rensource, Enerbuild and Clean Energy Associates as well as advising Impact Investors at Palladium (formerly Enclude) and Technoserve.
Jaime brings 15 years experience in private equity and strategic consulting at leading institutions such as Coller Capital, the EBRD and McKinsey & Co. He has a joint degree in Economics and Law from ICADE and an MBA from the Harvard Business School.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
James has a wealth of experience in Business Systems. Most recently he worked in an implementations role for a specialist Bristol-based Cloud systems consultancy, advising clients across industries. Prior to this, he was at the Financial Conduct Authority where he was responsible for ensuring the success of its Customer Relationship Management, operational and regulatory systems.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Commercial Finance Manager
- in 2021 As a Management Accountant
Jane enables informed business decisions to be made through Financial analysis. She is responsible for overseeing Brunel's Management Accounts, budget setting, business planning and treasury management.
Jane joined Brunel in 2021 as a Management Accountant with 10 years prior experience in the IT and Construction industries and in 2023 became our Commercial Finance Manager.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Jo has worked in the financial services industry for the last 25 years, predominantly in change management/PMO roles for life and pension companies. In previous roles she has managed the project office across project portfolios and large business/IT transformation programmes working with clients such as Scottish Widows and Aviva.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Investment Business Manager
Jodie has worked in the Financial Services industry for almost 20 years, predominantly in business or project management roles. Jodie has spent the last 10 years in the front office of a global asset manager, most recently in the role of Research Project Manager. Jodie is most interested in investment process improvement, client communications and investment research, all of which she is hoping to focus on in her role as Investment Business Manager.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Joe has over a decade of experience working in the banking industry, in both finance and business management positions. He comes to Brunel from Deutsche Bank where he was the Global Finance Director for Equity Trading, with front to back control responsibility for a large high-volume business. Joe enjoys engaging in the breadth of topics that the COO role covers, from the provision of the office infrastructure to oversight of custodianship and entity financial control. This is even more apparent during the formative years of Brunel, where the variety and scope of challenges makes Brunel a great place to work.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Julie (Jules) has over 20 years Executive Assistant experience working in public and private sector organisations, including an international company in the Netherlands. She recently moved from the NHS to Brunel and, when in the office, commutes from South Wales, although her roots are in Warwickshire. In her EA role at Brunel, Jules supports Joe Webster, COO and three Non-Executive Directors.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Head of Operational Risk and Compliance
Katherine has 15 years' experience within the fund management industry and joined Brunel after working for the Financial Conduct Authority authorising and supervising asset management firms. Prior to this she has worked for investment management firms including Coutts & Co, RBC Wealth and Henderson Global Investors (now Janus Henderson). Katherine is responsible for ensuring Brunel has an effective control environment and we are meeting our regulatory obligations. Katherine is a CFA Charterholder and holds the IMC Certificate.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- General Counsel
- Director of Risk & General Counsel
Kevin joined Brunel as General Counsel in May 2018, having spent nearly 30 years as a lawyer in private practice, predominantly focussed on M&A and investment management, including 13 years as a partner in international law firms. Latterly, he spent a great deal of time working for LGPS clients making investments in private markets funds, providing an early insight into the opportunities presented by LGPS pooling when it was proposed by the government in 2016. Since joining Brunel, Kevin has worked on transitioning over £30bn assets under Brunel's management, as well as a broad range of operational and governance matters. He became Director of Risk in June 2020, assuming responsibility for leading the Risk & Compliance team at Brunel, and is also MLRO.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Laura's primary focus is on ensuring Brunel achieves its objectives as a fund manager and asset owner. Within that remit, she also wants to see companies improve their sustainability, embedding it in their culture and their broader strategy, so that long-term profitability goes hand-in-hand with being a force for good in the world.
She has over 25 years' experience within asset management. The majority of this has been within institutional fund management, most notably eight years at Barclays Global Investors (now BlackRock), and subsequently at M&G, Schroders and Brewin Dolphin. Laura graduated from Exeter University with a BSc in Biology with Chemistry.
Laura's ambition is to see Brunel set a pioneering example in responsible and sustainable investing, so that it can challenge the broader fund management industry to place sustainability at the heart of investing.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Investment Operations Officer
Following the completion of her Marketing Communications degree, Lauren has worked in investment operations since 2012. She started her career at Hargreaves Lansdown where she supported the cash operations function within the client accounting team with a primary focus on outward cashflows. She then moved into the private markets sector where she worked as a senior analyst for 2 years at Pantheon Ventures specialising in transactions on the operations team. Here she was responsible for overseeing and approving the transaction bookings in a fund-of-funds environment. Lauren will focus on private market investment operations at Brunel, managing relationships with our operational stakeholders and overseeing the effective running of activities within this area.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Analyst - Private Markets
I joined Brunel in September 2023 as a Portfolio Analyst in the Private Markets team, providing support across all private markets asset classes. Prior to joining Brunel, I was awarded a distinction in an MSc Financial Analysis and Fund Management at the University of Exeter. I have also passed CFA Level 1.
Job Titles:
- HR and Recruitment Officer
Lily has worked in Recruitment and HR for the past 7 years across Financial services, Engineering and Tech. She focuses on attracting and onboarding new talent, along with monitoring and improving employee and candidate experience. she has joined Brunel as an HR & Recruitment officer.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Non - Executive Director
- Shareholder
- Shareholder Non - Executive Director / As Shareholder NED and Remuneration Committee
Chair, Liz brings her experience in insurance and as an angel investor to facilitate Brunel's continued development across a range of key areas, in line with its client needs.
Educated as a Production Engineer, Liz spent 19 years at Toyota, the home of lean manufacturing, in roles all around the business, including production control, logistics, cost management, productivity and supply chain management.
Job Titles:
- Accountant
- Corporate Finance
Lucy is responsible for Corporate Taxes, Statutory Reporting and the Financial Control framework. She joined Brunel in 2017 as Trainee Accountant from Avon Pension Fund where she gained experience in investments as well as accounting. She graduated from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) in 2017 after completing an apprenticeship in Finance at Bath and North East Somerset Council. Brunel has supported Lucy through the CIMA qualification, with her last exam pass in January 2023.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Graduate Operations Analyst
During his time in college, Luke studied for an extended diploma in Business, achieving a Triple Distinction Star - the highest grade. Subsequently, he shifted his focus to entrepreneurship, graduating from Business - Team Entrepreneurship with First Class Honours. At university, he co-Founded Tribonix, a tech start-up specialising in the development of upper body exoskeletons to augment the manual workforce. Luke is the first to join the Brunel graduate scheme.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Analyst
- Portfolio Analyst - Private Markets
Mark is a Portfolio Analyst in our Private Markets team. Starting his career as an apprentice at St James' Place Wealth Management in their Investment Operations team, with a primary focus on fund accounting, he then moved on to be a Fund Research Analyst at Nationwide, focusing on both fixed income and equity funds before joining Brunel in July 2023.
Achieving a distinction in his apprenticeship, Mark passed the CF1 & LP2 financial advice exams and more recently attained the Investment Management Certificate. He is now looking forward to starting the journey towards being a CFA charter holder.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
"playing the saxophone, football and I am also an F1 fanatic!"
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Listed Markets
Matt joined Brunel following over eight years with the Avon Pension Fund where he led on manager selection, investment performance and monitoring, and supporting investment strategy development with the committee and senior officers for the £4.2 billion Fund. Prior to this, Matt was Associate Director at an early stage venture capital boutique where he worked with entrepreneurs to prepare their businesses for growth.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
With over 25 years' experience in the investment industry, Melissa joined Brunel in March 2023 as Head of Operations, with responsibility for and oversight of investment operations, change management, and technology. Prior to that, she worked at Marathon Asset Management, defining and implementing their target operating model, as well as managing the investment operations, performance & reporting, and client operations teams. The first 20 years of her career were spent working for Russell Investments across a number of functions, including client service, business development, marketing, change management, and operations. During this time, she lived in Australia, Singapore, the US and the UK.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Analyst - Listed Markets
Prior to joining Brunel Michael worked as a client Service analyst at Brevan Howard. As an intern at TD Securities and Tikehau Capital he gained experience in sales positions on both the sell-side and buy-side.
With a masters from Loughborough in "Risk, Governance & International Management" and an undergraduate degree in Economics from Royal Holloway, University of London Michael is an exciting addition to the portfolio team.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Investment Non - Executive Director
Miles Geldard was Head of Fixed Income and Balanced portfolios at Jardine Fleming/JP Morgan Asset Management for five years before spending two years as CIO and Head of the Global Multi-Asset Group at JPMorgan Asset Management. In 2006, he founded the Multi-Asset and Convertibles team at RWC Partners. He then spent nine years at Jupiter Asset Management, first as Head of Strategy, Multi-Asset and Fixed Income and, subsequently, as Senior Advisor. Aside of his significant institutional and multi-asset investing experience, his commitment to sustainability is clearly demonstrated in his three years as trustee of Save the Elephants and his trusteeship at the BioGuinea Foundation. He also sits on two Investment Committees.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager
- Portfolio Manager - Private Markets
Nicholas is a Portfolio Manager on the Private Markets team. He has over 10 years of industry experience. He previously held a senior position at RPMI Railpen, where he was responsible for managing private market portfolios. Nicholas holds a BA in Economics from the University of Leeds and is a CFA Charterholder.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
"When I'm not working, I enjoy brewing beer, gardening and playing golf."
Job Titles:
- Senior Portfolio Analyst - Private Markets
Oliver joined Brunel in September 2021 from Rotork, where he worked as Risk Analyst. At Rotork, Oliver discovered a passion for Responsible Investment whilst working on a decarbonisation project. He joined the Private Markets team as Portfolio Analyst to help support across the team with reporting and research.
Oliver graduated from Leicester University in 2019 with a Degree in Economics. He is currently studying towards his CFA level 1, with the support of Brunel.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Responsible Investment Officer
Oliver joined Brunel in February 2023 after gaining experience in the Impact Investment field in Jordan. Oliver read Business Entrepreneurship BSc at Southampton University with a year in industry in San Francisco. He then completed his postgraduate MA in Environmental Studies at Tel Aviv University.
Oliver is passionate in his views of an ecocentric economy and plans to implement them in his role at Brunel.
As a lifetime Bristolian he is forthcoming in the assets that an independent mindset can provide.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Client Relationship Analyst
Owain joined Brunel in August 2022 as Client Relationship Analyst following his graduation in Economics and Finance from Swansea University. At university, he was specifically drawn towards asset management and discovered an interest in investment.
Owain previously worked in roles - both before and during university - ensuring the delivery of excellent customer service and aims to continue providing this through his role at Brunel.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Patrick has a background in the financial sector, with extensive experience of regulation, risk management and control. He worked for many years as an advisor and consultant to some of the world's largest banks, insurers and pensions providers as well as having hands on experience of running large professional advisory businesses. He holds a number of non-executive roles. As a non-executive director for Brunel, Patrick's duties include chairing the Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee and responsibility for holding the executive directors to account in the interest of the company stakeholders, including Brunel's LGPS Clients and employees.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Paul graduated from the University of Bath with a BSc in Economics in 2023. He worked as a summer analyst at Royal London Asset Management, within the fixed income department, helping the global high yield and sterling credit teams.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Senior Investment Operations Officer
Peter has over 10 years experience working in Investment Offices, in a variety of different roles. Peter joined Brunel from Lloyds Banking Group in June 2022 where he worked in an Investment Oversight role, overseeing LBG's active & passive fund managers, Custodians and Depositaries. Prior to that, he worked at AXA as an Asset Delivery manger where he was responsible for corporate actions and fund administration, across the asset universe. Peter holds the CISI Diploma in Investment Operations and the CFA Certificate in ESG Investing.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Reanna completed her law degree at the University of the West of England in 2021. Having graduated, Reanna joined Brunel as a Legal Analyst for one year in 2021, whilst undertaking the Legal Practice Course. Reanna has now returned to Brunel as a Legal Analyst.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Richard has over 20 years of experience working in Investment Management and M&A Corporate Finance. He was appointed Head of Private Markets at Brunel in 2018, prior to which he worked for two internally-managed LGPS as a Fund Manager and Portfolio Manager.
A CFA® Charterholder since August 2014, Richard has an M.A. Economics & Management from the University of Oxford. He holds multiple sports instructor qualifications (Ski, Kitesurf, Snow-Kite) with a love for all things outdoors.
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Listed Markets
Richard is an Investment Officer and part of the Listed Markets team. Prior to joining Brunel, he worked as an Investment Analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown and also has experience investing in commercial property in the UK and Denmark. Richard holds a degree in Business and Accounting from the University of Exeter, the Investment Management Certificate and is a CFA Charterholder.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Investment Non - Executive Director
Ms Van Wijk has more than 30 years' management experience in the financial sector. From January 2018 until March 2020 she was Global Head of Responsible Business & Public Affairs at Aegon AM. Prior to that, she was CEO of TKP Investments BV for more than eleven years; for the first five years at TKP, she also served as a member of the board of TKP Pensioen BV. Before joining TKP (part of Aegon), she held numerous senior investment and management positions, including at Actiam, Philips pension fund and PGGM and amongst other a non-executive board position at the Dutch Railway pension fund. From 2014 to 2020 she has also served as a board member of the Dutch Fund and Asset Management Association, of which she was chair in the last two years. She played an important role in establishing the climate commitment of the entire Dutch financial sector to the Cabinet's climate goals in 2019. She was chair of the Investment Leaders Group at the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership until October 2019. She holds independent supervisory roles at various organizations in the fields of culture, pensions, public housing, convenience retail and legal protection.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Trainee Management Accountant
Safiye began her career working as a Business and Administration apprentice, before spending three years working full time as an Accounts Assistant. She graduated from AAT with a Diploma in Professional Accounting in 2018 and has since worked in a variety of different sectors, such as recruitment and tech. She joined Brunel as a Trainee Management Accountant and is studying for her CIMA qualification to become a fully qualified accountant.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Head of Investment Operations
Salomé has worked on the investment managers' side for around five years. In her previous roles in AXA IM she has supported front office functions, valuated funds and facilitated investments. She has two Masters degrees, one in Corporate Finance, and one in International Banking and Finance. She enjoys having a comprehensive understanding of the investment process and an extensive understanding of processes. At Brunel she is responsible for overseeing services' providers, carrying out due diligence on managers, supporting clients and their queries, and operationally managing investments.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
"getting to know Bristol, as I am brand new to the city, and finding all the best coffee and alternative places. I'm a proud brass brand trumpeter, and love trekking, cycling in the hills and taking part in eco-friendly activities."
Sarah started working as a support desk analyst and progressed through to a second line senior analyst before moving into IT service management and IT service desk management at a third line support level. She has also worked as an Infrastructure and cloud specialist dealing with data centres and Microsoft Azure configuration. Sarah previously worked for a solicitor's firm and a private health provider, and is looking to progress her knowledge and qualifications in this area over the next few years.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Senior Portfolio Analyst - Private Markets
Saskia joined Brunel in April 2020 from Trigon Pensions where she worked as a Senior Analyst on the investment side of the advisory team. She joined the Private Markets team as a Portfolio Analyst to help support across the team with reporting and research.
Saskia holds an MPhys in Physics from Durham University and is a CFA Charterholder.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Shweta has over 15 years' experience, having previously worked in head office functions at AXA, Prudential, and M&G. She has worked across financial and non-financial risk and strategy, implementing frameworks, policies and systems across Asia and the US. After a career break of 6 years Shweta joins us to further embed a sound risk culture.
Shweta thoroughly enjoys working with people, valuing collaboration, and connections. She never backs down from a challenge, relishing the breadth of responsibility that her role brings.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Simon has over thirty years experience in third party fund research and fund of funds management. Prior to joining Brunel, Simon worked at abrdn for over fourteen years as Head of Fund Research, where he was responsible for over £30bn of assets under management
Simon also had portfolio management responsibilities and combined his research duties with managing the abrdn multi-manager range, and a number of portfolios for abrdn's strategic partners.
Before joining abrdn, Simon worked at Cazenove for six years, where he was Head of Fund Research and a portfolio manager.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Listed Markets
Before joining Brunel as an Investment Officer, Stephanie worked as an Equity Research Analyst covering the European bank sector at Berenberg Investment Bank. Prior to this, Stephanie worked on the buy-side at MFS Investment Management, after having started her career in Investment Consulting at Mercer, where she developed a focus on Responsible Investment. Stephanie is a CFA Charterholder, holds the IMC, and graduated with a Masters with Distinction and a First Class degree from the University of Leeds.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Investment Reporting Analyst
Stephen joined Brunel in May 2022 from Hargreaves Lansdown, where he assisted in fund reporting and administration for the HL Multi Manager and Select Funds.
Stephen has over 11 years' experience in the financial services industry and brings a wealth of knowledge with a background in UK and overseas pensions administration, private client service, investment operations and oversight. He is currently studying towards his CFA IMC Unit 2, with the support of Brunel.
Sue has an extensive background working in insurance and has been an operational manager, a restaurant proprietor and a senior administrator for a major UK bank. At Brunel, Sue looks after the CIO, David Vickers, and the wider investment team, covering logistics and managing meetings as well as providing secretariat services for a range of Brunel committees.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Before joining Brunel, Tasha had worked in dentistry for 18 years, gaining extensive administration knowledge and experience in her practice management role. Tasha now supports the CRIO Faith Ward at Brunel to ensure the efficient running of Faith's day-to-day commitments.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Head of Client Relationship
Tim has more than 20 years investment experience as a fund manager specialising in Asian equity markets. He joined Brunel in 2021 after 13 years at Invesco where he was responsible for £1.5bn of client portfolios. He started his career at the Bank of England in 1993 and was involved in assessing financial stability in South East Asia during the Asian Financial Crisis. In 1998, he joined F&C Emerging Markets in his first investment role.
He is a CFA Charterholder and holds a BSc and MSc in economics (City University and Birkbeck, University of London).
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Analyst
- Portfolio Analyst - Private Markets
Tobani recently graduated in July achieving a first class in my BSc Economics degree from Swansea University.
He completed an internship at an asset manager, working within their ESG team. Previously Tobani worked for a pension fund within their private credit team assisting with investment research and analysis for their direct lending transactions.
Job Titles:
- Senior Portfolio Analyst - Listed Markets
Tom joined the Investments team from Business West where he was an International Trade Research Advisor, identifying promising export markets for UK businesses.
Graduating from the University of Manchester with an MEng (Hons) in Chemical Engineering with Energy and the Environment and from Bristol Business School with an MSc in Finance. He is a member of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Vaishnavi started her career in responsible investment following completion of her degree in Commerce (majoring in Finance and Accounting) at the Australian National University in 2010. She worked as a responsible investment analyst at an ESG research service provider called CAER (which is now part of ISS ESG) providing environmental, social and governance (ESG) company assessments, analysing sector-specific and thematic risks and supporting active ownership strategies for a range of institutions in Australia and New Zealand.
She spent the next six plus years at the PRI, Principles for Responsible Investment, an investor coalition supporting signatories incorporate ESG factors into their investment and ownership decisions. Here, Vaish took on a number of roles specialising in governance issues such as tax fairness, cyber security, responsible political engagement and ESG-linked executive remuneration, leading a large collaborative engagement on tax transparency and cyber governance with investors collectively representing USD 15trn in AUM. She was also involved in the development of GRI-207 tax standard as a technical committee member. Prior to joining Brunel Pension Partnership, she worked as the director of governance, leading and coordinating the governance team's activities.
Vaishnavi holds a Graduate Certificate of Law and has recently completed the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG investing.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- Portfolio Manager - Private Markets
Vanessa joined Brunel in March 2018. She has over twenty years of investment experience and is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment. Vanessa worked with Richard Fanshawe at Derbyshire Pension Fund for seven years, where she had sole responsibility for Derbyshire's entire property portfolio (direct and indirect, both in the UK and Europe), as well as investing in UK REITs - one of her specialist equity sectors. Prior to 2010, Vanessa worked as a fund manager for Quilter in Birmingham investing on a discretionary and advisory basis for a client base composed of trusts, private clients and charities. Vanessa started her career at Grieveson Grant in the City, having graduated from Trinity College, Cambridge.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...
Job Titles:
- CEO
- Executive Assistant
- Executive Assistant to
Vicky is Executive Assistant to Brunel's Chair Denise Le Gal and CEO Laura Chappell, as well as providing Secretariat services to a range of Brunel Committees. Vicky has extensive experience having supported senior staff in both the public and private sectors. She has a PhD in Social Sciences from Cardiff University.
When I'm not working, I enjoy...