Industry fund Local Government Super (LGS) has appointed Declan Clausen to the board of directors, effective from 26 March, 2021, while deputy chair Bruce Miller will be replaced by Karen McKeown.
Clausen would fill the seat vacated by Miller, who was stepping down after serving nearly 11 years on the board, and sitting board member McKeown would replace him as deputy chair.
Clausen joined chair Kyle Loades and independent director Sandi Orleow, chief executive Phil Stockwell, and another independent director Claudia Bels.
Clausen’s appointment was as an employer-nominated board member, and he was previously Deputy Lord Mayor of Newcastle since 2017 and the fourth director to join LGS in the past 18 months.
He was also currently the executive officer at the Hunter Water Corporation and previously worked in public affairs with the Sydney Water Corporation.
He was one of 80 senior international local government leaders to complete a year-long executive management and governance program at Harvard University on a scholarship from former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Loades said Clausen’s experience and academic qualifications further enhanced LGS’ commitment to attract the best possible talent to ensure the super fund delivered value and long-term growth for all members.
“Furthermore, through his leadership experience as Deputy Lord Mayor of Newcastle and corporate roles, Declan has a proven track record of listening to the community and providing the best outcomes possible,” Loades said.
“LGS is consistently recognised as a global leader for its long-term commitment to responsible and sustainable investing.
“Declan’s commitment to working as a key civic leader driving a strategy of liveability, sustainability and the uptake of smart city technologies during his time at the City of Newcastle demonstrates that he is a perfect fit for LGS.”
Loades also thanked Miller’s contribution to the LGS board.
“Bruce is a strong advocate for responsible and sustainable investing and successfully led LGS through a period of governance change to achieve the best possible outcome for our members,” Loades said.
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