Aware Super appoints ESG, product and insurance heads

Aware Super's real estate arm has hired a new executive to lead its ESG effort.

Emma Thomas is Head of ESG at Aware Real Estate which manages the superannuation fund's directly owned Australian property portfolio.

Thomas is responsible for ESG strategy, management and performance, also overseeing health, safety and environment.

Thomas has over 20 years' experience in ESG integrated strategy, risk management and governance for real estate working in Australia, the USA and the UK.

She has delivered climate transition plans and responsible investment strategies for ASX companies.

Earlier in her career, the specialist consulted with major companies to drive ESG best practice in real estate.

Previously, Thomas held roles as group environmental sustainability manager at Stockland and director of sustainability for property and investment at Lendlease Americas.

In the latter position, she led the delivery of environmental and social outcomes across portfolios aligned to net zero emissions reduction pathways.

"I'm excited to be a part of a growing business committed to delivering both positive environmental and social outcomes for the community in combination with strong returns for Aware Super's 1.1 million members," she posted on social media.

"I'm looking forward to contributing to the growth of our culture and capability to deliver on our purpose."

Aware Super has confirmed the promotion of David Evans to the newly created role of head of product and insurance, Industry Moves reports.

The technology-savvy executive - with an extensive life insurance and superannuation background - was elevated from head of insurance, a position he has held since 2018 when the superannuation fund was First State.

As insurance lead, Evans has long worked to make a difference in the lives of members including at a time where members are vulnerable and unexpectedly cease work temporarily or permanently due to ill health.

In this newly created role, he leads the Aware Super team responsible for the product and insurance strategy, product governance and management, and key stakeholder relationships.

He will report to the fund's general manager, retirement Nicolas Amado who has moved up from head of product.

Evans has held several executive senior positions within the financial services sector, including head of corporate insurance at AMP, a role he filed for around five years.

There he led the corporate insurance business, including the offer development, business development and client relationships across all major segments and channels of the group insurance market.

He covered master trusts, industry funds and the standalone corporate employer segment.

Before this, Evans held various roles with MLC, National Australia Bank and Accenture.

MLC was NAB's insurance and wealth management division.

At the big four lender, he led the direct insurance and bancassurance teams and played a critical role in the integration of Aviva Australia's wealth management business into MLC.

"The creation of this role is in line with the $170 billion fund's commitment to building strong relationships and delivering industry-leading member-centric superannuation, retirement, insurance, guidance and advice solutions for its 1.1 million members," an Aware Super spokesperson said.