Paddy will join LGPS Central, which is based in Wolverhampton, in early April.
He will report to the head of private markets and will be responsible for leading the pool’s approach to local investment, working closely with partner funds and key stakeholders to deliver against evolving investment strategy requirements.
The appointment comes as LGPS Central grows to represent 15 partner funds, with significant local investment already committed at both fund and pool level.
With assets under management expected to represent around £100 billion, the business aims to build on its strong foundations and support partner funds to develop and meet local investment objectives.
Paddy brings extensive LGPS experience, with almost 14 years at Merseyside Pension Fund followed by 12 years at Greater Manchester Pension Fund.
His career spans a range of investment and governance roles, giving him a deep understanding of local authority pension funds from a fund perspective.
Local investment is expected to play an increasingly important role in local economic development, with funds needing to balance risk and return alongside social and environmental impact. It also has the potential to deliver meaningful outcomes across critical assets and services throughout the UK.
Paddy will work closely with partner funds, combined authorities, Homes England, the National Wealth Fund and a range of local delivery partners to help translate government ambition into investable opportunities.
Paddy said of his new role: “This is an exciting new challenge. My immediate priority will be getting to know all 15 partner funds and gaining a deeper understanding of where each is on its local investment journey. Implementing the Pensions Act is a key focus, and I am looking forward to working collaboratively to deliver outcomes that meet both fiduciary and local objectives.”
Jayne Atkinson, chief investment officer for LGPS Central, added: “This is a strong hire for LGPS Central. Paddy brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted understanding of local investment from a fund perspective, which will be essential in supporting our partner funds to deliver on their local investment objectives in line with government ambition. He will hit the ground running, including developing a local investments team to deliver for our partner funds.”