Sharon White Appointed Managing Director and Head of Europe at CDPQ
Caisse de Depot et Placement du Quebec (CDPQ) in Montreal has appointed Sharon White as managing director and head of Europe. This appointment is part of a recent announcement.
White will collaborate with asset class leaders located in the U.K., Europe, and Montreal. She will also direct investment strategy in Europe, which is CDPQ’s second biggest market following North America.
Sharon White will start on January 27, 2025. She takes over from David Morley, who announces his retirement after serving as the European managing director since February 2021.
In a news release, White expressed her enthusiasm. She stated, “CDPQ is one of Canada’s largest pension funds and a global leader in sustainable investing. We aim to secure returns for over six million depositors while supporting Quebec’s economic development.” She looks forward to contributing to the group’s growth in the U.K. and internationally.
What are Sharon White’s plans for sustainable investing at CDPQ in her new role?
Interview with Sharon White: CDPQ’s New Managing Director and Head of Europe
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Sharon, and congratulations on your new role as managing director and head of Europe at the Caisse de Depot et Placement du Quebec (CDPQ). What attracted you to this position?
Sharon White: Thank you for having me. I am thrilled to take on this role with CDPQ, which I regard as one of Canada’s largest pension funds and a global leader in sustainable investing. The opportunity to manage investment strategies in Europe, which is CDPQ’s second-largest market, is incredibly exciting. I believe my experience and background can significantly contribute to the group’s growth in the U.K. and beyond.
Interviewer: You’ll be collaborating with asset class leaders across various regions. How do you envision this collaboration influencing your investment strategies?
Sharon White: Collaboration is key in this role. By working closely with asset class leaders in the U.K., Europe, and Montreal, we can cultivate a strong understanding of local markets and global trends. This integrated approach will allow us to craft innovative investment strategies that align with our goals while remaining responsive to the dynamic economic environment.
Interviewer: You will begin your new role on January 27, 2025, succeeding David Morley. What legacy do you hope to build upon and continue?
Sharon White: David Morley has done remarkable work in his tenure as the European managing director, and I intend to build on that strong foundation. My goal is to further enhance CDPQ’s position in Europe, particularly in sustainable investing, by leveraging innovative practices and fostering strong partnerships across various sectors.
Interviewer: Sustainability is a major focus for CDPQ. How do you plan to prioritize sustainable investment in your strategies?
Sharon White: Sustainability is at the core of what we do at CDPQ. It’s essential for achieving long-term financial returns and supporting the goals of our over six million depositors. I will advocate for integrating sustainability into all facets of our investment strategies, ensuring that we contribute to economic development while achieving robust returns.
Interviewer: You have an impressive track record, including your previous role as chairman of the John Lewis Partnership and chief executive of Ofcom. How will these experiences shape your leadership at CDPQ?
Sharon White: My experiences have equipped me with a diverse skill set, from navigating complex organizational structures to fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. At CDPQ, I plan to draw on these lessons to develop a cohesive team focused on our strategic objectives and to ensure we remain adaptable in the face of global challenges.
Interviewer: Lastly, you received a Damehood in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours in 2020. How has this recognition influenced your career and aspirations?
Sharon White: Receiving the Damehood was an incredible honor, and it has only strengthened my commitment to public service and sustainable leadership. It serves as a reminder of the impact one can have in both public and private sectors. I carry that responsibility into my new role, aiming to make a meaningful difference for CDPQ and its stakeholders.
Interviewer: Thank you, Sharon, for sharing your insights today. We wish you the best of luck in your new position at CDPQ.
Sharon White: Thank you for the opportunity! I look forward to embarking on this journey and making a positive impact at CDPQ.
Before this role, White was chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, the largest employee-owned business in the U.K., until September. She served as the chief executive of Ofcom from 2015 to 2019. Additionally, she was a permanent secretary at HM Treasury. In 2020, White received a Damehood in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours.
As of June 30, CDPQ managed C$452 billion (approximately $324 billion) in assets.