Faith Ward lauds IIGCC’s climate progress as CFA fellowship recognises her impact

Faith Ward spoke last week at the AGM of the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC), a key partner for Brunel.

Faith, who is both Chief Responsible Investment Officer at Brunel, and Chair of the IIGCC, told the organisation’s annual general meeting that progress had continued through the reporting year despite the global headwinds faced by responsible investors.

“We are deeply grateful for the ongoing dedication and energy of our members, which remains the foundation of IIGCC’s growing impact,” she said.

“Despite the complexities and headwinds in the policy landscape, there is a clear structural shift underway toward a decarbonised economy that presents extraordinary investment opportunities. Our shared strategic priorities – Net Zero, adaptation and resilience, emerging markets, and nature – continue to provide a vital framework to help investors navigate risks and unlock opportunities. Together, we will continue to drive meaningful progress and real-world impact in this pivotal decade for climate action.”

The IIGCC represents over $65 trillion in AUM across its members. For more details on the AGM, see: IIGCC members back continued support into 2026 at AGM.

Fellow of the CFA

In the same week, the CFA Institute awarded Faith a fellowship in recognition of her enormous industry impact in climate finance. The CFA statement said:

“Faith is a leading advocate for embedding systemic climate risk into finance. She has spearheaded initiatives such as the Transition Pathway Initiative and serves on multiple advisory groups shaping the future of sustainable investment.”

Faith was awarded her fellowship alongside six other investment professionals, several of whom se has worked with closely: Alex Edmans, FBA, FAcSS; Mark Fawcett, OBE; Annabel Gillard, CFA; Will Goodhart; Euan Munro; and Helen Thomas, CFA.

“It meant a huge amount to be recognised by an institution so central to our industry, or, as I said to my mum and dad – I am really so chuffed,” said Faith.