media release
4 April 2025
HESTA strenghtens investment and security teams with new GM appointments
HESTA has today announced the appointment of Michael Blayney to the role of General Manager of Dynamic Asset and Nick Catherall as General Manager of Information Security.
The moves underscore the fund’s ongoing focus on data security and commitment to enhancing its investment strategy in a rapidly changing environment.
Mr Blayney joins HESTA in a newly created role within the Investment Management team, reporting to Head of Portfolio Design, Dianne Sandoval. In this new role, Mr Blayney will be pivotal in leading the Dynamic Asset Allocation team, responsible for delivery of HESTA’s dynamic asset allocation investment strategy and process.
Mr Blayney brings a wealth of experience to HESTA, having previously served as the Head of Multi Asset at Pendal Group, and before that held senior roles with First State Super, Perpetual and Towers Watson.
As General Manager of Information Security, Mr Catherall will report to Senior Technology and Digital Strategist Peter Lawrence.
With over 20 years working in financial services, Mr Catherall brings extensive expertise in security strategy, risk management, and cyber resilience. He previously served as Regional Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at CHUBB, CISO at AVIVA, and Head of Information Security Management at ANZ.
HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said the appointments supported HESTA’s focus on keeping members’ data safe and its strategy to deliver strong long-term performance through active investment strategies.
“These appointments help ensure we can continue to be well-positioned as a leading global investor, maintaining our great track record of performance, and will further strengthen our digital security capability,” Ms Blakey said.
“Michael has the skills and capabilities we are looking for in helping inform our investment approach through market volatility, which is critical to delivering strong long-term returns for members. Nick’s experience will be invaluable in driving forward our information security strategy, with the ongoing protection of member data of the utmost importance.”
HESTA’s Chief Investment Officer, Sonya Sawtell-Rickson said, “Michael’s depth of experience in investment management and superannuation will be a tremendous asset, allowing us to further refine our investment strategies. His proven track record in dynamic asset allocation will undoubtedly strengthen our investment capabilities and support us in navigating the changing market environment to best serve our members’ interests.”
Looking forward to the new experience, Mr Blayney said, "I am excited to join HESTA and lead the Dynamic Asset Allocation team. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a great team in a mission-driven organisation, motivated to improve the retirement incomes of members.”
Excited by the impact Mr Catherall will have on the team, Senior Technology and Digital Strategist Peter Lawrence said, "Nick is a fantastic addition to the team. His industry experience and proven ability to align cybersecurity with business objectives, while focusing on compliance and resilience, will be instrumental in further shaping our Information Security strategy."
Mr Catherall said he was excited to join HESTA at a pivotal time for the super industry, “I feel fortunate to be joining such a passionate and purpose-driven team and I look forward to contributing to the great work they are doing, and building on these strong foundations as we navigate the evolving digital landscape."
Ends.