U Ethical appoints distribution lead

U Ethical Investors has appointed veteran funds management executive Stuart James as head of distribution, as the firm continues to build out its leadership team and pursue its next phase of growth.

James joins U Ethical's leadership team with responsibilities for distribution, marketing and client services, brining nearly 25 years of experience across the funds management sector.

His previous roles include board director and head of distribution at Aberdeen Asset Management.

U Ethical chief executive Brett Jollie said the appointment represents an important step as the responsible investment manager seeks to expand its market presence and strengthen relationships across the industry.

"Stuart combines deep technical expertise across funds management with a strong understanding of the drivers of successful asset management businesses," Jollie said.

"He person of integrity, sound judgement and humility who builds strong relationships and leads in a thoughtful and collaborative manner," he said.

According to U Ethical, James has a strong track record of building distribution teams, securing research ratings and platform access, and developing relationships with advisers, consultants and research houses that support growth in funds under management.

Based in Sydney, James will focus on deepening engagement with adviser, consultant and platform networks, which U Ethical identified as central to its distribution strategy.

Jollie said James' appointment was aligned with the organisation's purpose-driven approach to investing,

"Stuart is excited about the opportunity ahead and his values align closely with what U Ethical stands for," Jollie said.

"He understands that our purpose is not just our point of difference- it is the foundation from which we intend to grow," he said.

James commenced in the role on June 16.

The appointment follows broader leadership changes at U Ethical. Earlier this year, the firm announced Jollie as its new chief executive, succeeding long-serving chief executive Matthew Browning. At the time, U Ethical said Jollie's appointment would help accelerate its growth strategy and expand its reach across Australia's institutional and wholesale investors markets, with the manager overseeing approximately $1.5 billion in funds under management.