U Ethical adds BDM to improve adviser experience

U Ethical has expanded its team with a new hire, appointing Christopher Burton as business development manager.

Bringing over two decades of experience in financial services to the role, Burton is tasked with enhancing the adviser experience, helping financial professionals confidently engage with the fund manager’s ethical investing approach.

Erica Hall, director of strategy and distribution at U Ethical, said the firm is thrilled to welcome Burton to the fold.

“We’re delighted to welcome Chris to the U Ethical team during such a pivotal time for our growth. His experience in financial services, combined with his genuine passion for aligning investments with values, makes him a valuable addition to our team,” she said.

“I’m confident financial advisers will appreciate his thoughtful approach and support.”

Prior to joining U Ethical, Burton spent over four years at Count as a practice development and growth manager for Victoria and South Australia, where he was responsible for the growth of the network and assisting existing member firms to grow their business and recruited over 40 financial advice businesses and advisers.

He also spent four years at Affinia Financial Advisers, recruiting more than 65 advice businesses.

Additionally, his experience includes three years at Commonwealth Bank, most recently as a practice development manager, and two years at AMP where he served as a business partnership manager and practice performance leader.

“Chris will play a pivotal role in enhancing the adviser experience, helping financial professionals confidently engage with our approach,” Hall said.

“We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to his contribution as we continue to support advisers and their clients.”

Established in 1985, U Ethical manages over $1.3 billion in funds under management, with a range of ethical managed funds for both wholesale and retail investors.

Last year, the fund manager welcomed Simon O’ Connor, former chief executive of the Responsible Investment Association Australasia, to its ethical advisory board.

It also appointed Kenneth De Bruycker as a senior responsible investment analyst, who will be working to enhance the firm’s ESG-focused investment strategies and reporting capabilities.