Real estate investment manager Savills Investment Management (Savills IM) has strengthened its ESG team responsible for the implementation of its net zero carbon pathway.
Based in London, senior ESG manager, Cathy Keir will support investment teams focusing on Europe initially, reporting to head of ESG Emily Hamilton. Keir joins from BMO Real Estate Partners, where she was sustainability analyst.
Cathy Keir commented: ‘I am delighted to join such a dynamic and innovative team with such a strong reputation in the real estate market. I look forward to working with the team to ensure Savills IM continues to embed strong ESG principles and actions into every aspect of the business.’
In addition, some existing Savills IM staff will now get more ESG-focused roles.
Investment relations coordinator Rosie Clarkson has been promoted to ESG manager and will manage internal engagement, including the ‘Restorative Business Champions’ program in partnership with Future Makers.
Senior risk manager Steven Evans has been working with transaction teams to support deeper ESG integration as part of the acquisitions process, particularly focusing on climate action.
For her part, head of the Luxembourg office Lorna Mackie is focusing on ESG disclosure regulations and requirements.
Joining them is the global head of communications and marketing, Michelle Sartorio, leading priority ESG strategic projects, such as the occupiers’ engagement program, and will collaborate with the investment team.
The firm's net zero carbon pathway’ sets out ambitions to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040 for all assets held by over two years, equivalent to 98% of its global AuM as well as all new funds that are developed.
Savills IM is delivering its first net zero ready logistics building in Belvedere (SE London) and retrofitting an existing logistics warehouse from EPC C to EPC A+.
It also plans to undertake more than 50 net zero carbon audits this year as part of its ESG program.
Alex Jeffrey, global chief executive at Savills IM commented: ‘Promoting and enforcing ESG is a key part of our investment framework as well as a central pillar in our responsibility towards investors, clients, employees and the wider community.’
