Australian Unity names CIO

Former Colonial First State CEO Joe Fernandes has joined Australian Unity in the newly-created role of chief investment officer.

The move comes after a reorganisation of the firm's investments team and the departure of Geraldine Barlow.

Since leaving Colonial First State in 2018, Fernandes has held several independent advisory roles in the superannuation and wealth management spaces.

In his new role, Fernandes will report to Australian Unity Wealth & Capital Markets CEO Esther Kerr-Smith. "Joe's key priority will be the ongoing stewardship and development of Australian Unity's investment activities," she said. "This will include capturing investment opportunities that align with our strategic agenda as a provider of health, wealth and care products and services that both meet the wellbeing needs of our members and customers, and delivery community and social value.

Fernandes will look after the Australian Unity investment team as well as its joint venture and investment partners Platypus Asset Management, Altius Asset Management, and Acorn Capital.

"I'm pleased to join a purposeful organisation at a critical time in its development," said Fernandes. "I'm looking forward to working with Esther and the Australian Unity team to create value for members and customers."