Insights
A deep dive with David, our new Chief Investment Officer
Q&A with our ethically driven CIO, David Lewis
Pathfinder recently appointed David Lewis to be our new Chief Investment Officer. David brings over 25 years of experience in finance across both the US and New Zealand, along with a Master’s in Sustainable Leadership from the University of Cambridge. His background in research and non-profit work related to climate change makes him a natural fit to lead Pathfinder’s investment strategy.
We sat down with David to learn more about what drives him, both at work and at home. From investing insights to weekend footy games and backyard orchards, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at who’s leading our ethical investing team.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
A: During the week, I’m usually up early, getting in a quick stretch or bit of exercise before heading into the office. I start by checking what’s been happening in the markets overnight. My day can involve reviewing ethical considerations across our portfolio, catching up with the team, trading bonds or buying stock, talking with clients and partners, and ultimately doing everything we can to get great outcomes for our clients.
Q: Where do you get your investing insights or inspiration?
A: Reading is a big part of the role in share and bond markets. I read a lot of offshore press and do a lot of investment research. Plus, I try to stay grounded with what is happening in Aotearoa. I also tune into a few podcasts - some are work-related, others are purely for fun.
Q: Any podcast favourites?
A: Guardian Football Weekly. It’s brilliant. When it comes to investing podcasts, I dip in and out of different ones, but none that make my list weekly. My favourite footy club is the Blue Rovers in Tauranga (in case you’re wondering).
Q: What’s one visionary shift you’d like to see in the next decade?
A: I’d want the world, especially the Western world, to shift toward a more sustainable economic model, and that means one where we can all of us can grow and prosper, but also build healthier, happier, and more inclusive communities whist being conscious of our dependency on the natural world.
Q: Do you think this new role can help contribute to that kind of future? What excites you about it?
A: Investors play a huge role on where the world is heading. At Pathfinder, we say we’re “investing for the world we want.” That means using our portfolios and our voice to lead the industry toward better practices. It’s a responsibility and an opportunity that I’m passionate about
Q: What do you think are the key difference is in Pathfinder's approach to investing?
A: In the investing world, the focus is usually on just two key factors: the risk you take and the return you get for that risk. Pathfinder has a three-tier approach - we care deeply about risk and return, but we add a vital third tier: the ethical and sustainability outcomes that our business and our funds are supporting.
While some other New Zealand firms are beginning to develop their responsible investing programmes, I believe Pathfinder is leading the way in ethical investing. We’re committed to this path by being deliberate about the companies and industries we avoid - particularly those causing harm - and by actively supporting investments that align with the principles set out in our Ethical Investment Policy.
It’s a more challenging approach, but I genuinely believe it can make a meaningful difference. I want to enable us to keep leading in this space and I hope our work encourages others to join us.
Q: What motivates you personally to invest ethically?
A: Climate is one of the biggest issues facing us and I think the investing world has a hugely important role to play in the type of world we leave for our kids, and our grandkids. I’m driven by a desire to work in a space where I can contribute in a positive way.
Over the years, I’ve dedicated time to studying climate issues and exploring practical solutions, including how financial markets can be part of the answer. For examples the potential for bond and fixed income markets to support better climate outcomes - a crucial lever, given their central role in most diversified portfolios. Ethical investing offers a unique opportunity to align capital with positive change, and I find that motivating.
Q: As someone who’s prioritised parenting over the last few years, any insights on balancing raising kids and saving for the future?
A: It’s not easy. Saving a dollar now always gets you more in the future thanks to compounding returns - but I recognise that not everyone can afford to save a lot right now. I try to stay mindful of that reality. I try teaching my kids simple things like if they get a pack of lollies, don’t eat them all at once, try saving a few for later, to appreciate delayed gratification, which is basically what saving is.
Q: What's a typical weekend like for you?
A: Kids’ sports are the priority. Then some downtime like going to the beach or catching up with friends. We also have lots of fruit trees to look after. I love seeing the excitement when our kids find fruit that is ripe, it’s a throwback to my childhood in Gisborne and something I cherish.
Q: Do you have a favourite Pathfinder fund?
A: That’s like asking me to pick a favourite child! But I’m genuinely proud of our KiwiSaver offering. We’re proving that strong returns and ethical investing can go hand in hand and that’s what makes us stand out.
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Pathfinder Asset Management Limited is the issuer of the Pathfinder KiwiSaver Plan and Pathfinder Investment Funds. A Product Disclosure Statement for the offer is available at pathfinder.kiwi. Learn more about how we invest ethically by reading our Ethical Investment Policy & Exceptions Register on our website.
