LGPS Central has confirmed the appointment of Paddy Dowdall as investment director for local investment, boosting the Midlands-based pool’s private markets focus.
Dowdall will join LGPS Central in early April.
He brings extensive LGPS experience, with almost 14 years at Merseyside Pension Fund followed by a further 12 years at Greater Manchester Pension Fund.
His career spans a wide range of investment and governance roles.
Dowdall will report to the head of private markets and be responsible for leading the pool’s approach to local investment, working closely with partner funds and other stakeholders to deliver against the investment strategy.
He will work with partner funds, combined authorities, Homes England, the National Wealth Fund and a wide range of local partners to translate government ambition into investable opportunities.
The appointment comes as LGPS Central grows to represent 15 partner funds, with significant local investment already committed at both fund and pool level.
With assets under management expected to represent around £100bn, the focus, said the pool, is building on strong foundations and supporting partner funds to develop and meet local investment objectives.
Local investment is expected to play an increasingly important role in local economic development, with funds needing to balance risk and return alongside social and environmental impact.
It also has the potential to deliver meaningful outcomes across critical assets and services throughout the UK.
Commenting on his appointment, Dowdall said: “This is an exciting new challenge. My immediate priority will be getting to know all 15 partner funds and gaining a deeper understanding of where each is on its local investment journey. Implementing the Pensions Act is a key focus, and I am looking forward to working collaboratively to deliver outcomes that meet both fiduciary and local objectives.”
Jayne Atkinson, chief investment officer for LGPS Central, added: “This is a strong hire for LGPS Central. Paddy brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted understanding of local investment from a fund perspective, which will be essential in supporting our partner funds to deliver on their local investment objectives in line with government ambition.”
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