NEST has renewed its contract with the proxy voting and analysis firm Manifest as part of its ongoing commitment to act as a responsible steward of members’ money.

Commenting on the relationship between NEST and Manifest, NEST’s Paul Todd said, ‘Auto enrolment is creating millions of new shareholders. Through our workplace pensions we all now have a stake in the future of global companies. That means we have an interest in how profitable and sustainable those companies are over the long term.

‘On behalf of over four million members NEST aims to be an active owner of those shares by voting and engaging with companies to encourage good corporate behaviour and reduce investment risk. The team at Manifest are critical to helping us do that and we’re delighted to be working with them on these important issues.

‘We believe that close working relationships with our fund managers and understanding how companies are managing environmental, social and governance risks is a fundamental part of the overall investment picture and are ignored to members’ detriment.’

Commenting on Manifest’s appointment, Sarah Wilson, CEO said,
‘We are deeply honoured to be continuing this long term partnership with NEST; it is an exciting time to be working with pension funds like NEST on sustainable stewardship and we look forward to supporting NEST’s journey as a responsible owner.’

Media Coverage of Announcement

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Investment & Pensions Europe