Savills IM has appointed Cathy Keir as senior ESG manager as it publishes plans to become a restorative business.
The real estate investment manager said it aims to become net zero by 2040 and restorative by 2050 – meaning that it will “seek to put more back into the planet and society than it takes out”.
Its Net Zero Carbon Pathway, published today, forms part of its ambition to become an ESG influencer.
Savills IM global chief executive, Alex Jeffrey, said: “As an investment manager we understand the importance of channelling finance to be a force for good, and the investment that will be needed to transition the built environment to at least net zero emissions before 2050.
“Our Net Zero Carbon Pathway outlines our commitment to become a restorative business. This means we will seek to put more back into society and the planet than we take out. Promoting and enforcing ESG is a key part of our investment framework as well as a central pillar in our responsibility towards investors, clients, employees and the wider community.”
The net zero carbon emissions target will apply to all assets that the firm holds for more than two years, which is equivalent to 98% of its €26.1bn global AUM, as well as all new funds that are developed.
In her new role, Keir will initially support investment teams focusing on Europe, implementing ESG targets and initiatives set out in the pathway document. Based in London, she will report to head of ESG Emily Hamilton. Keir joins from BMO Real Estate Partners, where she held the role of sustainability analyst.
Keir said she looked forward to working with the team “to ensure Savills IM continues to embed strong ESG principles and actions into every aspect of the business”.
Savills IM has also expanded its ESG team by moving several staff into ESG-focused roles. Rosie Clarkson, who previously served as investment relations coordinator, has been promoted to ESG manager and will manage internal engagement. Steven Evans, senior risk manager, has been working with transaction teams to support deeper ESG integration as part of the acquisitions process, particularly focusing on climate action. And Lorna Mackie, head of the Luxembourg office, is focusing on ESG disclosure regulations and requirements.
The team will also receive support from Michelle Sartorio who, in addition to her role as global head of communications and marketing, will spearhead priority ESG strategic projects, such as the ESG occupiers’ engagement programme, and will collaborate with the investment team as Savills IM builds its impact investing platform.
Savills IM also has plans to undertake more than 50 net zero carbon audits this year as part of its ESG programme.
To send feedback, e-mail piers.wehner@eg.co.uk or tweet @PiersWehner or @EGPropertyNews
Take the EG ESG data survey >>
