The Chair of the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation, Catherine Savage, was named Fellow of INFINZ (Institute of Finance Professionals New Zealand) at the INFINZ awards in Auckland last week.

The Fellowship is acknowledgement of Ms Savage’s significant contribution to the finance industry in New Zealand. She was commended by INFINZ for her ability to effect change in the industry through an inclusive approach, and for the support she has offered to other Treasury professionals and future female leaders. 

Acting Guardians CEO Matt Whineray said: “The Fellowship is worthy recognition of Ms Savage’s considerable contribution to financial markets over the course of her career, including her stewardship of the Guardians’ Board for the last nine years.”

The New Zealand Superannuation Fund was also recognised at the INFINZ Awards, winning the ‘Craigs Investment Partners Excellence in Treasury Award’.

The Guardians’ Portfolio Completion team, which carries out its Treasury function, has become a key driver of value for the $38 billion Fund.

The award was for a project that involved improvements to foreign exchange trading practices including execution, matching, settlement and trade cost analysis, over the course of several years.

INFINZ said, “The NZ Super Fund has fundamentally restructured their approach to foreign exchange trading. Through embracing technology and the injection of new thinking to historic models and processes they have disrupted traditional channels, enhanced price discovery, accessed market liquidity directly and have automated foreign exchange transactions.”

Mr Whineray said the project was a great example of how technology could be used to improve business practices and create efficiencies. “It has reduced operational and financial risk, and improved productivity. We’re delighted with the recognition from INFINZ”.

Other finalists in the category were Contact Energy, SKYCITY Entertainment Group, and Synlait Milk.

ENDS