The Australian Council of Superannuation Investors (ACSI) is pleased to announce that David Whiteley has been appointed its new President. Mr Whiteley joined the ACSI board last year, representing IFM in his role as Global Head of External Relations, and takes over as President from outgoing HESTA CEO Debby Blakey.
“David has a wealth of experience in, and a strong commitment to, profit-to-member superannuation,” ACSI CEO Louise Davidson said.
“He will bring his expertise in responsible investment and strong history of working collectively to his role as ACSI President. The ACSI team and I very much look forward to working with him.”
“Strong governance and responsible stewardship by long‑term investors is always essential, and in times of global turbulence, it’s even more important funds work to protect investment value for the millions of working people ACSI’s members serve,” Mr Whiteley said.
“I’m proud to take on this role and continue supporting ACSI’s critical work.”
Ms Blakey has been ACSI President since 2021 and announced earlier this year she would step down from her roles at HESTA and at ACSI.
“Debby has been a champion for ACSI and for managing the financially material sustainability and governance issues we deal with,” Ms Davidson said.
“Most importantly, she has consistently brought the voice of super fund members into every consideration. On behalf of the ACSI community I want to thank Debby for her significant contribution to ACSI’s success.”
HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said: “ACSI plays a vital role in holding Australia’s listed companies to account on the issues that matter most to long-term investors. I am delighted to be handing over the presidency to David, and confident ACSI will continue to be a passionate and influential voice for change under his leadership.
“It has been a privilege to serve as ACSI President, and I leave the role enormously proud of what the organisation has achieved.”
David Whiteley is the Global Head of External Relations for IFM Investors, responsible for managing IFM’s relationships with its shareholder pension funds, stakeholder, government and public relations strategies and policy and research.
Prior to joining IFM Investors, David was the founding Chief Executive of Industry Super Australia (ISA) for twelve years, leading ISA’s advocacy efforts with the objective of improving Australia’s superannuation system so that it works in the best interests of members.