First State Super announces new Chief Investment Officer

First State Super has appointed Damian Graham as its new chief investment officer (CIO), effective immediately.

His appointment follows the departure of former CIO, Richard Brandweiner, who left the role last week after announcing in August that he will be moving to take up a directorship at global impact investment firm, LeapFrog Investments.

Graham has been acting in the CIO role since the announcement of Brandweiner's departure.

As CIO, Graham will be responsible for the combined assets of both First State Super and StatePlus, the financial planning company purchased by First State Super in May 2016. The multi-asset investment portfolio includes over $75bn in listed and direct assets supporting the needs of over 800,000 members and clients in the early years of superannuation and throughout retirement.

Graham previously led investments at StatePlus and brings over 20 years' experience managing equity portfolios and investment teams.

Commenting on his appointment, First State Super CEO, Michael Dwyer, said: "Damian brings a wealth of investment leadership expertise and he has a deep appreciation of the members first philosophy that underpins First State Super's approach to investing."

Graham added: "It is a privilege for me to join an outstanding team of investment professionals at First State Super and to guide the fund's investment strategy and approach to universal ownership."