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As Chief Executive of the New Zealand Super Fund, Jo Townsend brings a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing investors in a rapidly changing local and global environment. Drawing on insights from one of the country's largest and most influential investment organisation, she will share reflections on navigating an increasingly complex investment landscape and the evolving role of responsible investment alongside the pursuit of strong financial outcomes. Following the keynote, Jo will join RIAA Co-CEO Dean Hegarty for a facilitated Q&A, responding to audience questions.
Chief Executive Officer of Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation
Jo joined the Guardians in April 2024, after spending eight years as Chief Executive Officer at Funds SA in South Australia. She has more than 30 years experience within investment management working in various technical and general management roles within a range of organisations in Australia including REST Industry Super, NGS Super, Retirement Benefits Fund, Value Capital Management, and Rothschild Australia Asset Management. Jo has a Bachelor of Mathematics and Finance from the University of Technology, Sydney.
Co-CEO of RIAA
Dean collaborates closely with global and local asset managers, super funds, Kiwisaver providers, financial advisors, and wealth platforms to align capital with sustainable outcomes. His strategic leadership has played a pivotal role in elevating RIAA's presence in both Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. With over a decade of experience leading teams in the not-for-profit sector, Dean also serves as a member of the National Advisory Board on Impact Investing in New Zealand and sits on the GovCo of the New Zealand Stewardship Code.
