Super funds reinforce responsible investment commitment with ESG appointments

Cbus and TelstraSuper have each welcomed environmental, social, and governance (ESG) leads to advance their responsible investment strategies.

The former has announced the appointment of Talieh Williams to the role of head of ESG integration, reporting to Cbus head of responsible investment Ros McKay.

Williams brings two decades of experience across the institutional investment sector to the role, including an 11-year stint managing UniSuper’s strategy and approach to ESG.

Most recently, she was chief of staff to the Victorian Funds Management Corporation’s (VFMC) chief investment officer and CEO and previously held the role of head of investment stewardship at VFMC.

Williams has also held leadership roles in several industry groups including the Australian Council of Super Investors, the Investor Group on Climate Change, and the Responsible Investment Association of Australasia.

In welcoming the appointment, McKay said: “Talieh is an outstanding appointment for Cbus and is known for her responsible investment expertise and as a leader in driving transformational change in approaches to responsible investment.

“As Cbus continues the evolution of its approach to managing material ESG investment risks and opportunities, Talieh’s unique experience will help champion Cbus’ responsible investment approach aimed at supporting sustainable long-term returns for our members.”

Williams said: “I am delighted to join Cbus Super, a domestically and globally recognised responsible investment leader. I look forward to joining the responsible investment team to continue to advance the fund’s responsible investing strategy and priorities.”

Meanwhile, Priya Patel has been appointed as head of ESG with TelstraSuper, reporting to chief investment officer Graeme Miller.

In a statement, TelstraSuper confirmed that Patel first joined the $26 billion fund as sustainable investment manager in August 2023. 

“Priya’s strategic approach to the Fund’s ESG vision will help us continue to drive long-term value creation, as well as positively impact both our investments and broader society,” Miller said on her appointment.

“We’re delighted to have her skills and expertise as an integral part of the investment team.”