Calvert Research and Management, the US-based ESG specialist, has expanded its team of analysts and has plans for more hires. The Eaton Vance-affiliate manager is also looking to provide more direct service to Australian and New Zealand funds.

Washington-based Calvert last month announced the recruitment of four analysts – Daniel Dorman, Hellen Mbugua, John Patrick Miller and Daniel Rourke – and is looking to recruit three more, to take its analysts team to 12. The firm launched its initial ‘social investment fund’ in 1982. It is a pioneer of ESG as a returns-enhancing strategy. Its initial fund was the first mutual fund in the US to openly oppose apartheid in South Africa, which turned out also to be a good investment decision.

Jessica Milano, Calvert’s head of research, said: “We continue to grow the ESG research team to better meet the needs of a growing client base and drive positive impact through Calvert’s responsible investment strategies and engagement.”

She said: “The new senior ESG research analysts combine both investment and  public policy/ESG backgrounds.  We believe these skill sets enabled them to understand the impact companies have on the environment, communities, and customers they serve while at the same time their  investment experience helps them understand how company performance  on these factors impacts balance sheet performance and long-term returns.

“These positions are new roles and additive to our research capacity  to support Calvert’s growth.  We are continually recruiting and will fill any vacancies due to attrition on a rolling basis as they arrive.”

Eaton Vance bought Calvert last year and has subsequently introduced the firm to Australian investors.

– G.B.