The provider of the People’s Pension1 has today announced the forthcoming appointment of two new Co-Heads of Real Assets, to lead its drive into private markets, which will include significant investment in the UK.
The appointment of Marija Simpraga and Raymond Wright means People’s Partnership will have the in-house capability needed to build on the recently announced ambition to invest 10 per cent of its growth pool assets in private markets by 2030, with substantial proportion being UK assets2.
Marija brings extensive strategic infrastructure expertise to her new role, having previously led private infrastructure research at Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM), where she focused on European clean energy and digital infrastructure, guiding more than £10 billion in real asset strategies. Previously, she led European utilities equity research at Bloomberg LP, where she integrated ESG factors into financial analysis and developed tools still used across its client network.
With 22 years in pension fund management, Raymond has worked with leading industry firms, including 16 years at British Airways Pensions, where he developed expertise in investment management and portfolio oversight. Throughout his career, he has managed diverse private market assets, focusing on innovative strategies that align with ESG principles, manage risk, and drive performance across various asset classes.
People’s Partnership’s Chief Investment Officer, Dan Mikulskis said of the appointments:
“We’re delighted to announce the appointments of two highly experienced fund managers, Marija and Raymond, to lead a key area of our growing investment portfolio.
“This marks an important milestone in the ongoing expansion of the investment team for The People’s Pension, which has nearly doubled in size in just over a year. Their expertise will enable us to ensure we get the best value for our seven million members in an area which presents an exciting opportunity.”
Commenting on her appointment, Marija said:
“I’m excited to co-lead the Real Assets brief for one of the UK’s fastest growing asset owners, focusing on delivering long-term value for our members through strategic investments in real assets.
“Our goal is to develop and implement a scalable private markets strategy that generates strong, risk-adjusted returns by deploying capital in private infrastructure and real estate. We’re committed to achieving positive real-world outcomes alongside financial performance, investing in assets vital to the UK’s economic growth and energy transition.”
Raymond added:
“This is a unique opportunity to not only expand our existing portfolio but also deliver real, tangible benefits to our members by building a strong and dynamic private markets platform from the ground up.
“The investments we make will aim to provide better returns for members, while integrating ESG principles that align with their values.
“I’m looking forward to working with the team to deliver on these ambitions and create a lasting positive impact in both our members’ financial futures and in the broader community.”
ENDS
Notes to Editor:
- People’s Partnership provides The People’s Pension, the largest independent master trust in the UK, serving nearly seven million pension savers across the UK and manages more than £30bn in assets. As a business without shareholders, it reinvests its profits with the aim to help customers and achieve better financial outcomes for everyone.
- In January, The People’s Pension announced its intention to invest in private markets here.