Cbus welcomes portfolio construction lead

Cbus Super has announced the appointment of Justin Pascoe as head of portfolio construction, having formally commenced with the fund earlier this month.

Pascoe joins Cbus with extensive leadership experience in the asset management space, including as head of equities at AustralianSuper.

He also had an eight-year stint as chief investment officer at the Victorian Funds Management Corporation, and has worked at State Street Global Advisors, Goldman Sachs, and Jardine Fleming during his career spanning more than three decades.

In a statement, Cbus said that Pascoe, in his new capacity, will spearhead the fund’s overall portfolio construction and management function with oversight of asset allocation, execution and investment options areas.

According to the $94 billion fund, he will report directly to chief investment officer Brett Chatfield.

Commenting on the appointment, Chatfield said: “Securing high quality, experienced professionals in portfolio construction is key to maintaining Cbus Super’s strong long-term returns.”

“Justin’s skills and experience are outstanding and he will bring an unparalleled senior level of expertise that will ensure we continue to deliver the best possible returns to our members,” he continued.

“We are particularly impressed with Justin’s deep expertise across asset allocation, asset class strategies and derivatives. Justin is a seasoned and high-calibre investor who will bring extensive experience and insight to the Cbus team.”

Last month, Cbus announced the appointment of Martha Georgiou as chief risk officer. She succeeded Wade Martin, who departed the fund at the end of 2023 after more than a decade, including four years as chief risk officer. He has since taken up a similar role at UniSuper.

Georgiou made the move from Crown Resorts, where she was group executive general manager, compliance and regulatory affairs for over two years.

Commenting on the appointment, Cbus deputy CEO Marianne Walker said she welcomes Georgiou’s contribution and strategic insights to the executive team, noting the importance of the role in the current regulatory environment.

“Managing risk in a time of growth and regulatory change is critical to a super fund meeting its strategic objectives, and Cbus Super is proud of its record in this area, protecting and growing retirement savings for our members over its 40-year history,” she said.