David Lewis joins Alvarium and Pathfinder with a strong investment track record, combining experience with large market-leading investment funds across multiple asset classes, with a deep commitment to best practice sustainability, governance, and values-based investing.
His extensive experience includes supporting commercial and team growth for almost a decade at both Milford Asset Management and Bank of America. He recently completed a Masters in Sustainability Leadership from Cambridge University, and his experience with research and non-profit work related to climate change makes him a natural fit to spearhead the investment strategy for both companies.
The appointment comes as almost half of Kiwis (49%) will consider changing to ethical funds within the next five years, according to a recent report from the Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) and signals a new chapter of growth for Alvarium and Pathfinder. In his new role, Lewis will prioritise delivering excellent investment outcomes for Alvarium clients, expanding both Alvarium and Pathfinder’s investment teams by attracting top talent and reinforcing the advancement of Pathfinder as the vanguard of ethical investing.
“It was an easy decision to join Alvarium and Pathfinder. I’m excited to represent the clear leaders in the ethical investing space, and to go beyond traditional wealth management, as we help shape the financial futures for generations of Kiwis to come,” Lewis said.
“It’s rare to find a role that aligns personal wealth creation with collective wellbeing, and I can’t wait to further the positive impact that we can deliver for our clients and broader community.”
Commenting on the new appointment, Alvarium chief executive Malcolm McKinnon said: “We’re delighted to welcome David Lewis as our chief investment officer. His track record of delivering exceptional results paired with a deep understanding of values-based investing makes him the ideal leader to guide our future investment strategy.”
Pathfinder CEO and co-founder John Berry, said: “We were looking for three key attributes in our new CIO – technical excellence in portfolio management, strong commercial acumen to help shape our future strategy, and a genuine passion for the impact that investing can have in the real world. David was the only candidate who possessed all three, and we are thrilled to have him on board.”
Lewis takes over the role from Wayne Ross, who has acted as the interim CIO over the past year as Alvarium added depth to the investment team with a number of new hires. Commenting on David’s appointment, Ross said: “We have been managing investment portfolios for Alvarium’s high-net-worth clients for over 20 years and I am confident that David will deliver outstanding outcomes which assist our clients to achieve their wealth objectives.”
Ross remains involved in strategic growth initiatives for the wider group, and will ensure a smooth transition of investment responsibilities.
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