Zenith Investment Partners has appointed Dugald Higgins to the expanded role of Head of Responsible Investment & Real Assets, to lead the growth of the business’ responsible investment offering and meet increased demand for ESG insights from financial advisers.

Mr Higgins was previously Zenith’s Head of Real Assets and Listed Strategies, having worked for Zenith since 2009. He will continue to report to General Manager and Head of Research, Bronwen Moncrieff.

Ms Moncrieff said having a dedicated resource to give ESG the focus it needs will result in the broader Zenith Group, which includes Chant West, having a stronger capability and consistent group approach to responsible investing.

“Zenith believes responsible investment issues should be fully incorporated into the broader fund analysis process and Dugald’s strong research background will bring a unique perspective on how this needs to work in order to optimise outcomes for investors.

“Investor interest, client feedback, manager activity and general market momentum is growing significantly in the area of responsible investing, and we are committed to it as both a service provider in our industry and as a business in our community.

“Dugald has been instrumental in driving Zenith’s work in this area via his responsibilities as Chair of Zenith’s Responsible Investment Committee. His involvement in sustainability issues in investment research date back to 2002 and going forward he will be tasked with continuing to drive our RI capabilities across the Group”.

“We believe responsible investment and incorporation of ESG is crucial in promoting a stable economy, and investors should be provided with investment choices that have measurable impacts as well as financial returns,” Ms Moncrieff said.