JANA names new chief executive

JANA has promoted Georgina Dudley chief executive, replacing Jim Lamborn, who will step down from the top job at the end of the year.

Dudley, currently the general manager of strategy and innovation, has worked with the asset consultant for 14 years.

Focussing on business strategy and innovation, she has been central to the roll-out of embedding technology-enabled resources for clients and leading broader strategic initiatives, including a greater focus on sustainability.

Before joining JANA in 2008, Dudley was a research analyst at Russell Investment Group transferring London to Sydney in 2006 as part of Russell's International assignment program.

"I am delighted to be appointed JANA's next chief executive," she said.

"The business has grown from strength to strength in recent years to emerge as Australia's largest investment advisor, advising more than 85 clients and surpassing $1 trillion in total funds under advice."

JANA chair Fiona Dunn called Dudley 'a pillar of the business.'

"She is a pioneer of our commitment to reduce risk and outperform over the long-term. Georgina was the optimum candidate to continue to grow and build JANA's capabilities to serve our clients with our world-class asset consulting services."

Lamborn will remain with JANA as executive director and continue to contribute to its commercial strategy.

The outgoing chief executive has led the business since 2015 and played a significant role in its growth and business transformation, including leading its management buy-out in 2017.

Dunn said Lamborn had overseen JANA during a unique period of history and that he should be very proud of its achievements for clients during these tumultuous times.

"We fully support Jim's decision to take a step back from the demanding position of chief executive and are delighted that he will continue to play a pivotal role, allowing the business to leverage his significant expertise and experience," she added.