Issue 4, 2025

The Nordic Fund Selection Journal’s Issue 04, 2025, offers comprehensive coverage of key developments, leadership insights, and market trends within the Nordic asset management industry. Featuring an in-depth interview with Cecilia Kellner, the new CIO of Länsförsäkringar Liv, the issue explores her leadership approach, investment strategy, and sustainability priorities amid evolving global challenges. The publication also delves into personnel movements at prominent pension funds and asset managers, highlighting ongoing industry transitions and the growing emphasis on gender diversity as exemplified by AP2’s Female Representation Index reaching record levels.

Further, the Journal presents expert dialogue from industry leaders such as Erik van Houwelingen of Van Lanschot Kempen on managing team longevity and adapting distribution strategies, as well as a peer-to-peer discussion with Emmanuel Deblanc of M&G and Mireille Abujawdeh of BlackRock examining structural shifts and future growth areas in private markets. Additional commentary covers the rise of evergreen fund structures for private wealth investors, with EQT’s Philip Heeroma outlining the benefits and challenges of these vehicles. Insights from region-focused professionals and Mercer’s global head of sustainable investments, Annabell Siem Mathiesen, round out the issue with perspectives on evolving sustainability demands, leadership, and market integration. Overall, the Journal offers a succinct yet rich overview of strategic thinking and operational trends shaping Nordic and global asset management in 2025.

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Table of content

Issue Overview and Featured Interview

Introducing the August-September 2025 issue featuring an in-depth interview with Cecilia Kellner, the newly appointed CIO of Länsförsäkringar Liv, discussing her leadership approach, investment philosophy, sustainability focus, and team management.

Industry News and Key Personnel Changes

Updates on recent executive movements including CEO transitions at Kåpan Tjänstepension, Ilmarinen, PP Pension, and Aktia Bank; promotions at AP7; and several senior departures and new appointments highlighting the evolving leadership landscape in Nordic asset management.

Gender Diversity and Inclusion in Nordic Asset Management

Analysis of AP2’s Female Representation Index revealing record highs in female board membership and improved gender diversity in management teams within Swedish listed companies, along with ongoing challenges and the role of nomination committees.

Market Insights: Asset Manager Perspectives

Interview with Erik van Houwelingen, CEO of Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Management, on managing fund manager team longevity, firm culture’s impact on client relations, distribution challenges, and adapting to evolving market and client expectations.

Peer-to-Peer Discussion on Private Markets

A dialogue between Emmanuel Deblanc (M&G Investments) and Mireille Abujawdeh (BlackRock) exploring the background, current state, and future developments of private markets including asset allocation trends, market drivers, challenges, regulatory issues, and sustainability integration.

In Conversation: Evergreen Funds and Private Wealth

Conversation with Philip Heeroma of EQT Group about the rise of evergreen fund structures as innovative vehicles to access private markets, benefits for both retail and institutional investors, operational and educational challenges, and evolving client demands.

The Travellers: Regional Insights from Asset Management Representatives

Perspectives from Preben Oeye (Janus Henderson Investors) and Cristina Lugaro (Candriam) on Nordic market trends, client engagement preferences, institutional investor concerns, emerging demands for sustainable and alternative investments, and favorite regional venues.

Up-Close & Personal: Spotlight on Mercer’s Annabell Siem Mathiesen

An intimate profile of Mercer’s global head of sustainable investments discussing her career journey, leadership philosophy, key ESG challenges investors face today, misconceptions about Mercer, and personal interests that help maintain work-life balance.

Additional Features and Editorial

Information on upcoming roundtable events, advertising partners, publication details, and contact information for Tell Media Group, emphasizing Nordic Fund Selection Journal’s commitment to serving institutional investors and selectors across the region.