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blog http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ IFM appoints new debt investment professionals in the UK and Australia http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-new-debt-investment-professionals-in-the-uk-and-australia/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) has appointed two new staff to its Debt Investments Team:
<ul><li>Hannah Lindberg, Investment Analyst, based in London</li>
<li>Linda Cunningham, Investment Director, based in Melbourne.</li>
</ul>The appointments strengthen IFM’s debt investment resources and broaden its global reach.
Hannah is responsible for undertaking credit research and deal analysis in support of IFM’s infrastructure debt capability in London. She was previously Assistant Vice President for Restructuring Business Support with Barclays, and holds a Bachelor of Arts from George Washington University. Hannah joins Investment Director David Cooper and Associate Hiran Wanigasekera to build IFM’s infrastructure debt investments presence in the UK and Europe.
Linda is responsible for key credit portfolios, product strategies and management of debt funds. Linda is an experienced senior lender and strengthens the resources of the Australian team. She joins IFM from AMP Capital, where she was Chief Manager, Commercial Lending. Linda holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting), is a CPA and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
IFM Global Head of Debt Investments, Robin Miller, commented:
“These appointments strengthen IFM’s debt investment expertise and continue the development of our global capability. Hannah adds important analytical capacity to our London infrastructure debt team, while investors will benefit from Linda’s extensive credit skills and experience. IFM will continue to invest in its resources to maximise the investment outcomes of our investors.”
The IFM Debt Investments Team is a niche credit and cash manager with specialist expertise in infrastructure debt. IFM’s funds under management in debt investments totalled £$10 billion as at 30 April 2013.
For further information, please contact:
Phillippa Cantrill FTI Consulting <a href="mailto:">phillippa.cantrill@fticonsulting.com </a>07766 993 174 Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:44:04 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-new-debt-investment-professionals-in-the-uk-and-australia/ IFM appoints new debt investment professionals in Australia and the UK http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-new-debt-investment-professionals-in-australia-and-the-uk/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) has appointed two new staff to its Debt Investments Team:
<ul><li>Linda Cunningham, Investment Director, based in Melbourne</li>
<li>Hannah Lindberg, Investment Analyst, based in London.</li>
</ul>The appointments strengthen IFM’s debt investment resources and broaden its global reach.
Linda is responsible for key credit portfolios, product strategies and management of debt funds. Linda is an experienced senior lender and strengthens the resources of the Australian team. She joins IFM from AMP Capital, where she was Chief Manager, Commercial Lending. Linda holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting), is a CPA and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Hannah is responsible for undertaking credit research and deal analysis in support of IFM’s infrastructure debt capability in London. She was previously Assistant Vice President for Restructuring Business Support with Barclays, and holds a Bachelor of Arts from George Washington University. Hannah joins Investment Director David Cooper and Associate Hiran Wanigasekera to build IFM’s infrastructure debt investments presence in the UK and Europe.
IFM Global Head of Debt Investments, Robin Miller, commented:
“These appointments strengthen IFM’s debt investment expertise and continue the development of our global capability. Investors will benefit from Linda’s extensive credit skills and experience, and Hannah adds important analytical capacity to our London infrastructure debt team. IFM will continue to invest in its resources to maximise the investment outcomes of our investors.”
The IFM Debt Investments Team is a niche credit and cash manager with specialist expertise in infrastructure debt. IFM’s funds under management in debt investments totalled A$15 billion as at 30 April 2013.
For further information, please contact:
Phil Davey Mountain Media <a href="mailto:phil@mountainmedia.com.au">phil@mountainmedia.com.au</a> 0414 867 188 Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:41:35 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-new-debt-investment-professionals-in-australia-and-the-uk/ Historic handover of Port Botany and Port Kembla to NSW Ports http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/historic-handover-of-port-botany-and-port-kembla-to-nsw-ports/ <div>
Over 5 million Australian superannuation fund members have today taken ownership of two of Australia’s most significant ports in an historic lease agreement with the New South Wales Government. 
The $5.07 billion transaction has seen NSW Ports assume management of Port Botany in Sydney and Port Kembla in Wollongong today through 99 year lease agreements. Led by Industry Funds Management, the consortium including AustralianSuper, Cbus, HESTA, HOSTPLUS and Tawreed Investments Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, won the leases in a competitive bidding process finalised earlier this year. 
NSW Ports Managing Director Tim Blood said the company was looking forward to managing these important gateway assets and providing certainty for the users of the ports. 
“NSW Ports is committed to the long term sustainable development of the ports for the benefit of our shareholders and the people of New South Wales,” Mr Blood said. 
“It will be business as usual as we get on with the job of working with staff, shipping lines, port users, local communities and government agencies in managing two of Australia’s most important import and export facilities.” 
Industry Funds Management Chief Executive Brett Himbury said the consortium partners are excited about this significant investment in Australian assets. 
“Around 5 million Australians, including more than 1.5 million in New South Wales, will have a long term investment through their superannuation in these vital facilities,” Mr Himbury said. 
“It’s a terrific outcome that more than 80 per cent of the ownership is by Australian superannuation funds. It is a demonstration of Australians supporting key Australian infrastructure.” 
Around 50 staff from Sydney Ports Corporation and Port Kembla Ports Corporation have chosen to transfer over to the new company. Remaining staff will stay with Sydney Ports Corporation and Port Kembla Port Corporation to manage operations that are not transferring, including pilot and navigation services. 
Port Botany and Port Kembla serve as the primary import and export gateways to NSW, Australia’s largest economy. 
Port Botany serves a vital role in the economy of Sydney and NSW as a container and bulk liquids facility. Port Kembla, located in Wollongong, is a key export facility for coal, grain and other bulk products and is the country’s largest vehicle import facility. 
The lease agreements include the two ports and the Enfield and Cooks River logistics sites. 
For further information, please contact: Russell Mahoney (02) 8298 6100, 0407 930 687 russell.mahoney@fticonsulting.com or 
 Clair Cameron (02) 8298 6100, 0409 240 137, clair.cameron@fticonsulting.com 
</div> Fri, 31 May 2013 12:45:00 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/historic-handover-of-port-botany-and-port-kembla-to-nsw-ports/ IFM appoints ex-Ferrovial CEO as Senior Adviser http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-ex-ferrovial-ceo-as-senior-adviser/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) today announced it has appointed industry veteran Nicolas Villen as an external Senior Adviser to its US$7.1 billion Global Infrastructure Fund. Nicolas will provide advice and support to IFM, particularly in enhancing strategic industry relationships in Spain and Latin America. 
Nicolas joins IFM following a 20 year career at Ferrovial. He was Chief Executive Officer of Ferrovial Aeropuertos, the Airport Division of Ferrovial, from 2009 to 2012, and Chief Financial Officer of Ferrovial from 1993 to 2009. Earlier in his career, Nicolas was Managing Director of Midland Montagu Ventures, as well as CEO of Smith Kline &amp; French for six years. 
Nicolas has held a number of board positions with infrastructure companies based around the world, including BAA Ltd. as Vice-Chairman, the transport infrastructure developer Cintra, services provider Amey, Indiana Toll Road, Chicago’s Skyway Concession, the Spanish telecom operator ONO and Polish construction company Budimex. 
Commenting on the appointment, Frederic Michel-Verdier, Executive Director for IFM in London, said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Nicolas, who has worked with some of the biggest infrastructure initiatives around the world. His experience and relationships in the sector will help drive IFM’s future development, as we continue to build our global footprint as a long-term, client aligned investor in infrastructure.” 
IFM has eleven Senior Infrastructure Advisers across sectors and geographies, four of which have been appointed in the past 12 months. Most recently, IFM appointed Alec Dreyer, the former CEO of the Port of Houston Authority in Houston, Texas, Keith Forman, former Partner / CFO of Crestwood Midstream Partners, and Dr Uwe Franke, the former Chairman of BP Europe, as Senior Advisers to the IFM Global Infrastructure Fund, to support IFM’s expansions in the US and German markets. 
Media contacts: 
Zaman Toleafoa, Phillippa Cantrill
FTI Consulting Ph: +44 207 269 9342 Email: <a href="mailto:IFM.sc@fticonsulting.com">IFM.sc@fticonsulting.com</a> Tue, 28 May 2013 15:58:17 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-ex-ferrovial-ceo-as-senior-adviser/ New cash mandate, awarded by Cbus, pushes IFM past major milestone http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/new-cash-mandate-awarded-by-cbus-pushes-ifm-past-major-milestone/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) has been awarded a A$300 million cash mandate by leading industry superannuation fund, Cbus, bringing IFM’s total cash funds under management to A$10 billion. 
Scott Barker, Investment Director of IFM’s Debt Investments Team, said the growth in cash funds under management was a significant achievement, and came on the back of support from a number of long-term investors. 
“We are pleased that our investors recognise and value our abilities and track record in cash investment management,” he said. 
“Our team is highly experienced and we have a track record of long-term outperformance. We believe that cash should be simple for our investors; our job is to manage the complexities and nuances and remain true to label. We are proud of our steady, consistent cash returns and are pleased that this is being recognised by a growing number of investors.” 
Cbus Executive Manager - Investment Strategy Kristian Fok said awarding the cash mandate to IFM made obvious sense. 
“IFM is a proven debt specialist and they have an extensive record to prove it,” he said. 
“At Cbus, we were attracted to the manner in which IFM runs a disciplined cash process with strong risk controls. 
“As one of the nation’s leading industry super funds, we need to have confidence in the manager looking after our cash investments and ensure we are getting the best value for our members. IFM’s competitive fee structure and record of outperformance was highly attractive to us.” 
<a name="_GoBack"> </a>- ENDS- 
 
For further information, please contact:
Phil Davey Mountain Media 0414 867 188 Mon, 20 May 2013 13:03:48 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/new-cash-mandate-awarded-by-cbus-pushes-ifm-past-major-milestone/ IFM-led consortium acquires long-term leases for Port Botany and Port Kembla http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/nsw-ports-acquires-long-term-leases-for-port-botany-and-port-kembla/ The NSW Ports consortium, led by Industry Funds Management (IFM) and including AustralianSuper, Cbus, HESTA, HOSTPLUS and Tawreed Investments Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, has been named by the New South Wales (NSW) Government as the successful bidder for the 99-year leases of Port Botany and Port Kembla.
The consortium partners will pay a consideration of $A5.07 billion ($US5.3 billion) to acquire the 99-year leases for the ports.
IFM CEO Brett Himbury said the transaction would benefit the Australian economy and the people of NSW, while having a positive impact on the retirement savings of millions of Australians for generations to come.
“It is a great outcome for the people of NSW and we commend the government for achieving this result,” Mr. Himbury said.
“Globally, it sets a strong precedent for using private investment to grow essential public infrastructure. Australia continues to be a leader in global infrastructure management and this is a good model for governments.”
“With over 80% ownership by Australian industry superannuation funds, the investment will benefit the superannuation savings of an estimated five million Australians – including more than 1.5 million in NSW.”
Port Botany and Port Kembla are essential infrastructure assets which serve as the primary import and export gateways to NSW, Australia’s largest economy and home to approximately one third of the nation’s population. As NSW’s only container handling facility of scale, Port Botany serves a vital role in the economy of Sydney and NSW. Port Kembla, located in Wollongong, approximately 90 kms south of Sydney, is the country’s largest vehicle import facility, and serves as a key export facility for coal and other bulk products.
Michael Hanna, Head of Infrastructure – Australia (IFM) said, “The consortium has acquired two high quality assets with considerable scope for future complementary development.
“We are delighted to assume the responsible stewardship of these marquee infrastructure assets. Together, we are fully committed to the long-term sustainable development of both ports and to maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, including local communities, customers, employees and governmental bodies.”
Mr. Hanna said IFM was well placed to lead the consortium given its experience in global infrastructure investments and specifically in strategically important gateway assets such as ports and airports.
“The consortium members have proven track records as responsible long-term investors in infrastructure assets around the world,” he said.
“We will continue to operate the two ports according to international best practice standards and ensure they underpin the economic growth of the State.”
Working closely with the NSW Government, NSW Ports has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure a seamless transition of port operations. The transaction is expected to close on 31 May 2013.
NSW Ports was advised by UBS and Lazard as its financial advisers and Herbert Smith Freehills as its legal adviser.
About IFM IFM is a global investment manager with investors and offices in three of the largest pension markets in the world. Headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, with offices in Sydney, London and New York, IFM manages $A44 billion ($US 46 billion) across four asset classes – infrastructure, debt, private equity, and listed equities. IFM is one of the world’s largest infrastructure fund managers and, over 18 years, has invested in a range of sectors including airports, seaports, renewable energy, toll roads and electricity generation. IFM invests on behalf of institutional investors and is owned by 30 major not-for-profit Australian pension funds.
About AustralianSuper AustralianSuper is one of Australia's largest superannuation funds with more than two million members, including over 500,000 NSW members, over $60 billion in funds under management and a net annual cash flow of over $4 billion. AustralianSuper has been an active investor in infrastructure since 1990, with ownerships stakes in over 100 different infrastructure assets. The Fund is one of Australia's largest infrastructure investors with an approximately $5.6 billion infrastructure portfolio.
About Cbus Cbus is one of Australia’s largest industry superannuation funds and the industry fund for the construction, building, infrastructure and allied industries. Established in 1984 Cbus provides superannuation benefits to over 700,000 members, has assets in excess of $21 billion, and accepts contributions from over 80,000 contributing employers. Cbus has $2.3 billion of investments in infrastructure and has an active strategy to invest back into the construction and building industry to not only provide strong long-term investment returns, but to also boost the economy and create jobs for its members.
About HOSTPLUS HOSTPLUS is the national superannuation fund for the hospitality, tourism, recreation and sport industries in Australia. The Australian Hotels Association (AHA) and United Voice (formerly the Liquor Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union) jointly established the Fund in 1987. It is one of the largest super funds in Australia with 1 million members, over 80,000 employers and $12 billion in funds under management. Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:22:09 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/nsw-ports-acquires-long-term-leases-for-port-botany-and-port-kembla/ IFM acquires additional stakes in NT Airports and Australia Pacific Airport Corporation http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-acquires-additional-stakes-in-nt-airports-and-australia-pacific-airport-corporation/ The IFM Australian Infrastructure Fund, has exercised its pre-emptive rights to acquire from the Australian Infrastructure Fund equity stakes in Airport Development Group (‘NT Airports’) and Australia Pacific Airport Corporation (‘APAC’).
This move increases IFM’s ownership position in NT Airports, which includes Darwin, Alice Springs, and Tennant Creek airports, from 55.6% to 77.4%.
IFM has also increased its stake in APAC from 20.7% to 23.7%. APAC owns Melbourne Airport and holds 90% of Launceston Airport.
“We are very pleased to deliver this outcome to our investors,” said Kyle Mangini, IFM’s Global Head of Infrastructure.
“This is a rare opportunity to increase our ownership interests in proven, quality Australian airports.”
IFM is the largest investor in Australian airports, with investments in five Australian airport companies comprising nine airports. Fri, 15 Mar 2013 11:26:40 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-acquires-additional-stakes-in-nt-airports-and-australia-pacific-airport-corporation/ Confirmed: IFM acquires stake in Manchester Airports Group, London Stansted Airport http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/confirmed-ifm-acquires-stake-in-manchester-airports-group-london-stansted-airport/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) has today confirmed it has closed on the purchase of a 35.5% strategic stake in Manchester Airports Group (M.A.G). This follows M.A.G’s announcement that it has been successful in its bid to acquire London Stansted Airport for £1.5 billion (AU$2.3 billion).
M.A.G is one of the largest airport operators in the UK with an outstanding track record of successful airport management. The Group owns and operates Manchester, East Midlands and Bournemouth airports currently. In the twelve months ending 31 March 2012, the Group’s passenger numbers rose by 6.7%, revenues increased by 8.6% and underlying operating profit was up by 26%.
IFM’s investment in M.A.G and the acquisition of London Stansted Airport have now both reached financial completion. It is the culmination of more than 18 months’ work by IFM developing a strong, long-term partnership with M.A.G. IFM worked in close partnership with M.A.G through the entire acquisition process of London Stansted Airport. 
M.A.G has a detailed integration plan in place to ensure seamless transition of ownership and operations at Stansted which will maintain business as usual for passengers and customers.
Kyle Mangini, IFM Global Head Infrastructure commented:
“As one of the largest airport operators in the UK, M.A.G has an outstanding track record of successful airport management. IFM’s equity stake in M.A.G furthers our strategy of investing in high-quality, core infrastructure assets.”
IFM is the largest investor in Australian airports, with equity interests in the airports of five major capital cities. In the UK, IFM holds interests in Anglian Water and Arqiva Limited, the UK’s largest broadcast and wireless communications infrastructure company. Mon, 04 Mar 2013 10:41:06 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/confirmed-ifm-acquires-stake-in-manchester-airports-group-london-stansted-airport/ 2012 A Standout Year for IFM Investors http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/2012-a-standout-year-for-ifm-investors-2/ Industry Funds Management has declared 2012 a standout year, characterised by strong investment performance, growth in funds under management and the attraction of high calibre clients through an expanding global footprint.
The vast bulk of IFM funds (80 per cent) met or exceeded benchmarks for the 2012 calendar year, Chief Executive Brett Himbury announced today, including Debt, Indexed Equities, cash and infrastructure.
IFM’s Australian and global infrastructure funds were particularly strong performers, with each exceeding their 10 per cent benchmark over the 12 months to December.
Other standouts were IFM’s debt products, which returned between 9-11% in 2012, and indexed equities, which exceeded 100 per cent of investment objectives.
Over the same period, IFM has seen significant growth in funds under management.
2012 saw a 24% increase in funds under management, from $31billion at December 2011 to $39 billion in December 2012.
Much of IFM’s growth in 2012 came from an expanding presence in North America. IFM gained 27 new clients in the region, raising approximately $2 billion. In addition, IFM added its first Asian client during 2012.
IFM Chief Executive Brett Himbury said:
“2012 has been a strong year for IFM across all asset classes, allowing us to deliver solid results to both existing and new investors and positioning us for 2013 as an investment house that delivers across all asset classes.
“We already have a strong start to 2013, having just gained exposure to the European airports market through our strategic stake in Manchester Airport Group, and the corresponding acquisition of Stansted Airport.
“IFM’s ethos of investing in steady, secure assets over a medium to long term horizon has been recognised by the fact that we have seen a substantial increase in funds under management.
“The interests of all our investors, and the retirement security of their members, are our key priority.” Tue, 12 Feb 2013 09:10:18 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/2012-a-standout-year-for-ifm-investors-2/ Australian Capital Investing in Canada http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/australian-capital-investing-in-canada/ CEO Brett Himbury's interview with Canada's Business News Network (BNN) took place on 29 January 2013. Brett made a strong case for IFM's business, noting the role IFM can play when supporting infrastructure projects, especially in developed markets.
<a href="http://watch.bnn.ca/the-street/january-2013/the-street-january-29-2013/#clip853528" target="_blank">Click here</a> to watch the interview.
 Tue, 29 Jan 2013 17:38:36 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/australian-capital-investing-in-canada/ IFM Raises $2 Billion in North America for its Global Infrastructure Fund in 2012 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-raises-2-billion-in-north-america-for-its-global-infrastructure-fund-in-2012/ NEW YORK, January 28, 2013 - Industry Funds Management (IFM), an investor-owned global fund manager, announced today that 27 institutional investors in North America made new equity commitments to its Global Infrastructure Fund in 2012, raising approximately $2 billion for the Fund during the year. These new commitments marked IFM’s strongest fundraising year in the region since 2009, raising infrastructure assets under management to $14 billion and total firm assets to more than $40 billion. These new commitments were raised as part of a targeted campaign to secure the capital needed for IFM’s current deal pipeline, including IFM’s 35.5% strategic stake in Manchester Airports Group (MAG) and MAG’s corresponding acquisition of London Stansted Airport for $2.4 billion, announced on January 18, 2013.
Notable corporate and public state pension funds which selected IFM in 2012 for new infrastructure commitments included the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS); Florida State Board of Administration; Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance; Maine Public Employees Retirement System; NAV CANADA Pension Plan; and, the Virginia Retirement System. CalSTRS’ $500 million allocation represented IFM’s single largest new commitment from North America.
Brett Himbury, Chief Executive of IFM, commented: “We are very pleased to partner with such an impressive group of North American funds. This level of investor confidence supports IFM’s distinct ability to source, access and execute infrastructure deals globally.”
Investing in core infrastructure assets globally since 1995, IFM’s Global Infrastructure Fund opened to the wider international investor community in 2009. It allocates capital to hold core infrastructure investments with a net target portfolio return objective of 10% per annum.
In 2012, IFM’s Global Infrastructure Fund exceeded its return objective, delivering a net return of over 11% to investors.
“Our disciplined focus remains on investing in outstanding core infrastructure assets that provide strong long-term, risk-adjusted returns for our investors,” said IFM’s Alec Montgomery, Head of Infrastructure – North America.
For media inquiries, please contact:
FTI Consulting Philippa Daniels <a href="tel:%2B%201%20646%20206%209821" target="_blank">+ 1 646 206 9821</a> <a href="mailto:Philippa.Daniels@fticonsulting.com" target="_blank">Philippa.Daniels@fticonsulting.com</a>
Stan March <a href="tel:%2B%201%20646%20576%208132" target="_blank">+ 1 646 576 8132</a> <a href="mailto:Stan.March@fticonsulting.com" target="_blank">Stan.March@fticonsulting.com</a> Mon, 28 Jan 2013 10:12:51 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-raises-2-billion-in-north-america-for-its-global-infrastructure-fund-in-2012/ IFM acquires stake in Manchester Airports Group following successful bid for London Stansted Airport http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-acquires-stake-in-manchester-airports-group-following-successful-bid-for-london-stansted-airport/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) has announced it will take a 35.5% strategic stake in Manchester Airports Group (M.A.G). This follows M.A.G’s announcement that it has been successful in its bid to acquire London Stansted Airport for £1.5 billion (AU$2.3 billion).
M.A.G is one of the largest airport operators in the UK with an outstanding track record of successful airport management. The Group owns and operates Manchester, East Midlands and Bournemouth airports currently. In the twelve months ending 31 March 2012, the Group’s passenger numbers rose by 6.7%, revenues increased by 8.6% and underlying operating profit was up by 26%.
IFM’s investment in M.A.G and the acquisition of London Stansted Airport are both expected to reach financial completion by the end of February. It is the culmination of more than 18 months’ work by IFM developing a strong, long-term partnership with M.A.G. IFM worked in close partnership with M.A.G through the entire acquisition process of London Stansted Airport. 
M.A.G has a detailed integration plan in place to ensure seamless transition of ownership and operations at Stansted which will maintain business as usual for passengers and customers.
Kyle Mangini, IFM Global Head Infrastructure commented:
“As one of the largest airport operators in the UK, M.A.G has an outstanding track record of successful airport management. IFM’s equity stake in M.A.G furthers our strategy of investing in high-quality, core infrastructure assets.”
IFM is the largest investor in Australian airports, with equity interests in the airports of five major capital cities. In the UK, IFM holds interests in Anglian Water and Arqiva Limited, the UK’s largest broadcast and wireless communications infrastructure company.
Charlie Cornish, Chief Executive of M.A.G, commented:
“Our bid for Stansted Airport has been under development for a year and throughout this time we have been delighted to work closely with IFM to create a compelling and unique partnership. Today’s announcement is excellent news for M.A.G and our shareholders; it marks the start of a new chapter for the Group.” 
 
For media enquiries, please contact:
Nick Lucchinelli <a href="mailto:nick@mountainmedia.com.au">nick@mountainmedia.com.au</a> +614 22 229 032 Sat, 19 Jan 2013 15:07:28 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-acquires-stake-in-manchester-airports-group-following-successful-bid-for-london-stansted-airport/ IFM awarded inaugural Australian Small Caps mandate http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-awarded-inaugural-australian-small-caps-mandate/ Industry Funds Management (IFM), an investor-owned global fund manager, today announced that HOSTPLUS has awarded the firm its inaugural Australian Small Caps mandate.
The A$50 million mandate, which is expected to grow over time, will be managed by IFM’s Small Caps team, led by Neil Carter.
IFM’s Small Caps investment approach relies on focused and rigorous research that is designed to identify mispriced stocks in the small and mid cap space. Investment opportunities are sought across all sectors of the market and the portfolio maintains low relative risk.
IFM’s Neil Carter commented: “We are very pleased that a client of the calibre of HOSTPLUS has come on board as our inaugural Small Caps client. We look forward to enhancing the investment outcomes of HOSTPLUS members in the Small Caps space.”
HOSTPLUS Chief Investment Officer Sam Sicilia said: “We are very impressed with IFM’s Small Caps investment capability. A disciplined process, experienced team and strong alignment of interests with clients combined to make IFM a logical choice for a Small Caps mandate.”
IFM has a strong pipeline and is confident that its Small Caps funds under management will grow over the medium term. Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:01:04 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-awarded-inaugural-australian-small-caps-mandate/ IFM launches new Direct Investment asset class, appoints new executive director http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-launches-new-direct-investment-asset-class-appoints-new-executive-director/ IFM is pleased to announce the launch of a new Direct Investment asset class with the appointment of Phillip Bower to lead our new investing initiatives.
We believe there is an untapped opportunity to directly invest in mature, Australian businesses with target returns of 12-15%. These assets exist across a wide-range of sectors including ‘infrastructure-adjacent’ areas such as waste-management, transport, and other essential business services. These opportunities can provide steady returns over a long period of time.
As Head of Direct Investments, Phillip will join our leadership team and report directly to IFM CEO, Brett Himbury. Phillip will work collaboratively with our investors to further define the market opportunities, return profiles, and target sectors.
Phillip is a seasoned private equity professional with deep experience from both a fund and investee perspective. Most recently, Phillip worked as Managing Director and CEO at Blue Star Group. Prior to this, he held the position of Managing Director at Unitas Capital where he was responsible for leading due diligence exercises, managing the investment of leading companies, overseeing lender funding arrangements, and determining exit opportunities.
Phillip has also worked as Managing Director and CEO at MCK Group, managing the company in a period of financial distress and transforming it into a high return growth business. And, he held senior marketing and BD roles at Goodman Fielder, Meadow Lea Foods and Corning Incorporated. Phillip will commence with IFM on 29 January and be based in Sydney.
The new asset class will be highly complementary to our existing infrastructure and private equity businesses and we will look to emulate success in these areas. We are very pleased with this opportunity to build on IFMs strong track record of investing in Australian businesses on behalf of well-capitalised long-term institutional investors. Wed, 14 Nov 2012 10:31:28 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-launches-new-direct-investment-asset-class-appoints-new-executive-director/ IFM strengthens Private Equity offering, appoints new executive director http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-strengthens-private-equity-offering-appoints-executive-director/ Industry Funds Management will strengthen its private equity capacity by appointing Steven Lipchin to lead its co-investing and direct investing initiatives.
Mr Lipchin was previously Head of Private Equity at Melbourne-based private investment and advisory firm Wingate Group and prior to this was co-founder and Managing Director of South African independent private equity firm Horizon Equity Partners.
Mr Lipchin’s appointment complements the existing private equity capacity of the firm, headed up by Judith Smith. Ms Smith said Steve’s appointment is an important step in the evolution of our Private Equity program.
“Private equity continues to enhance returns for our investors’ members,” she said.
“Around the world pension funds are increasing their allocation to private equity. Here in Australia, over the past ten years, PE net returns outperform most market indices.”
“At the same time we are seeing traditional lenders pulling back from the SME sector, thereby providing good investment opportunities. Australian SME’s currently lack funding and that means IFM has an opportunity to achieve strong returns, while building jobs for Australians in the process.”
“The feedback from our clients is that they want additional direct exposure to private equity. We have responded and Steve will now lead this next phase.”
“I welcome Steve to IFM as our new Executive Director of private equity. He has excellent experience, across a number of private equity markets. The evolution we are announcing today, in extending and evolving our capacity in this asset class increases our focus on co-investment and direct investment with our clients.”
Ms Smith said that IFM’s current fund investing portfolio would be managed separately from direct investment activities.
“IFM’s private equity team has a 14-year record of success and we remain wholly committed to our fund investing program, where we manage $2.6 billion on behalf of our investors,” she said.
Mr Lipchin starts work with IFM on November 12 and will be based at IFM’s head office in Melbourne.
 
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Anil Lambert 0416 426 722 Fri, 09 Nov 2012 09:40:00 +1100 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-strengthens-private-equity-offering-appoints-executive-director/ IFM appoints new leadership in European Infrastructure Debt http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-new-leadership-in-european-infrastructure-debt/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) has appointed David Cooper as Investment Director, Debt Investments, to lead the expansion of IFM’s infrastructure debt capability into the UK and Europe. Mr Cooper will be based in London and report to Global Head of Debt Investments, Robin Miller.
Mr Cooper brings deep knowledge of infrastructure financing and a proven track record of originating and executing infrastructure debt investments in the UK and European markets. He will work closely with IFM’s Australian team of infrastructure debt specialists under Kevin Lewis, and will be supported by an additional specialist in London, to be announced over the coming months.
Mr Cooper will also be working with IFM’s well established European infrastructure equity team of twelve investment professionals (plus specialised support) based in London and led by Christian Seymour.
Mr Cooper joins IFM from Barclays, where he was Head of the Infrastructure &amp; Structured Project Finance Team in London. Prior to this he worked at RBS and HBOS.
Commenting on the appointment Robin Miller, noted:
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“This is a key appointment for IFM in a growing and increasingly complex market environment. David has the experience and expertise to leverage IFM’s strong track record in infrastructure debt to deliver tailored mandates for leading pension and other institutional funds.”
“High quality credit such as infrastructure debt offers safe, positive real returns, income flow and a degree of inflation protection as well as diversification in a confusing and increasingly uncertain investment environment” Mr Miller said. “We believe that this is only our first step and we will be ready to expand the team to meet demand, while at all times maintaining our strong culture which derives from our unique ownership structure and alignment with investors.”
</blockquote>
IFM has a 13 year track record of investing in infrastructure debt for long-term institutional investors with A$1.5 billion in funds under management in this sector (out of A$3.7 billion of credit risk assets and out of over A$11 billion total in cash and debt investments). IFM’s infrastructure debt capability complements its capability in infrastructure equity, for which it currently manages over A$11 billion globally. IFM believes that Infrastructure equity and debt are both defensive, alternative asset classes. Although they have many similarities, they also have distinct risk-return profiles, requiring separate investment teams, but with each asset class having a place in a well diversified portfolio.
 Wed, 19 Sep 2012 09:40:00 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-new-leadership-in-european-infrastructure-debt/ IFM appoints Wade Smith as Global Head of Marketing http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-wade-smith-as-global-head-of-marketing/ Industry Funds Management, an investor-owned global fund manager, today announced the appointment of Wade Smith as Global Head of Marketing.
As part of the IFM Leadership Team, Wade will direct IFM’s global marketing efforts. He will be responsible for designing and executing IFM’s marketing strategy, product development and business plans.
“We are extremely pleased to welcome Wade to IFM. His appointment marks a continuation of IFM’s strategic global growth and diversification. His appointment will enable us to further improve services to our clients and our product offerings to existing and prospective investors across all markets” said Brett Himbury, Chief Executive of IFM.
Wade brings over 15 years of institutional marketing experience to IFM, specifically across asset management, insurance and banking industries. He has delivered institutional marketing programs and business growth strategies through periods of rapid expansion.
Wade joins IFM from Ernst &amp; Young, where he was an Executive Director in the Asia-Pacific Financial Services practice. Previously he held global marketing and strategy roles at MetLife.
Wade will commence with IFM on 17 September 2012 and will be based in Melbourne, Australia. Tue, 11 Sep 2012 09:40:00 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-appoints-wade-smith-as-global-head-of-marketing/ IFM announces partnership with Asset Management Council http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-announces-partnership-with-asset-management-council-2/ Industry Funds Management (IFM) will partner with the Asset Management Council (AMC) to deliver superior risk management and business outcomes for its clients.
The partnership will promote a sophisticated and comprehensive approach to asset management, drawing on the experience, expertise and offering of each organisation.
As the largest infrastructure investor in Australia, and one of the largest globally, IFM brings a unique understanding of the long term, sustainable management of infrastructure assets drawing on its 17 year investment track record.
IFM's Investment Director, Infrastructure, Danny Elia will join the AMC board. Mr Elia has responsibility for IFM's asset management strategy across its 26 global infrastructure assets.
"Best practice asset management is an absolute priority for IFM, which is why this partnership makes sense," Mr Elia said.
Kyle Mangini, Global Head of Infrastructure, leads IFM’s global Infrastructure team.
"IFM aims to generate excellent long-term returns through efficient and effective management of infrastructure. This partnership reconfirms our commitment to that process," Mr Mangini said.
The partnership agreement with AMC will run for five years.
IFM invests in core infrastructure assets for leading pension and other long term institutional investors in Australia, North America and Europe.
 Mon, 03 Sep 2012 09:40:00 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-announces-partnership-with-asset-management-council-2/ IFM announces sale of Wales & West Utilities http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-announces-sale-of-wales-and-west-utilities/ <a href="http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-infrastructure-funds/">IFM Infrastructure</a> has divested its interest in Wales &amp; West Utilities following an agreement with Cheung Kong Infrastructure (CKI) to acquire 100% of the company from existing shareholders. This is a very opportunistic sale on behalf of our investors at a strong valuation premium. Wales &amp; West Utilities has been a stable, core infrastructure investment for IFM and its sale delivers a strong return to investors while providing financial flexibility given the attractive acquisition opportunities across Europe and North America.
Financial completion is expected by 30 September 2012 and is subject to EU merger clearance. Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:34:20 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/ifm-announces-sale-of-wales-and-west-utilities/ Pacific Hydro celebrates 20 years of clean energy http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/pacific-hydro-celebrates-20-years-of-clean-energy/ Pacific Hydro, an asset in the IFM Australian Infrastructure Fund, celebrates 20 years of clean energy. For more information, visit their anniversary micro-site <a href="http://www.pacifichydro.com.au/20years/" target="_blank">here</a>. Tue, 10 Jul 2012 14:51:18 +1000 http://www.ifm.net.au/ifm-news/pacific-hydro-celebrates-20-years-of-clean-energy/