London CIV has appointed EOS at Federated Hermes to lead its voting and engagement across its listed equity and fixed income assets.
EOS, a specialist stewardship service provider, will support London CIV in their dialogue with companies on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. London CIV believe this is essential in building a global financial system that delivers long-term returns for investors, as well as positive and sustainable outcomes for society.
The appointment comes as London CIV have released their first dedicated Stewardship Policy, and additionally, their first Stewardship Outcomes Report. Both documents deliver greater transparency on how the organisation prioritises ESG issues against the World Economic Forum’s Four Pillars: ‘People, Planet, Principles of Governance, and Prosperity’, and aim to measure the progress made and the milestones achieved, against key objectives.
Jason Fletcher, Chief Investment Officer at London CIV, says: “Active ownership is one of our most effective mechanisms to reduce risks, maximise returns and have a positive impact on society and the environment. Divestment alone would leave us with no voice, and no potential to help drive responsible corporate practices or add value for our clients. We hope that the appointment of EOS will help us to achieve our stewardship objectives and continue to provide long-term and sustainable investment opportunities to the London CIV’s Client Funds”.
Mike O’Donnell, Chief Executive Officer at London CIV, said: “Our first Stewardship Outcomes Report and dedicated Stewardship Policy comes at a time when portfolio resilience and responsible investment have never been more pertinent. The pandemic has reminded us about the inter-dependence of human activity and the environment and the urgency to address socio-economic issues. However, committing to ESG progress is not enough, we must get better at generating and managing performance data to drive real change.”
