Real Returns. by Wincel Kaufmann

June 1, 2025

Power in Stewardship: Olga Hancock on Investor Influence & Responsible Investing

<p><strong>Real Returns</strong> – The people behind sustainable investments. By Wincel Kaufmann.</p><p>Olga is the Head of Responsible Investment at Church Commissioners for England. At the end of 2023, the Church Commissioners’ fund held assets valued at £10.4 billion.</p><p>Olga is a solicitor by background, graduated from the University of Sydney and has served on multiple organisations as Chair of UK Sustainable Investment &amp; Finance Policy Committee, Investor Policy Dialogue on Deforestation, and the International Corporate Governance Network.</p><p>Her leadership and advocacy in Responsible Investments have shaped many financial institutions and managers. She is someone that I personally admire for her vision and commitment to positive change. </p><p>Interesting fact: She speaks 4 languages, English, French, Indonesian &amp; Norwegian.</p><p>Olga’s career journey shows how purpose can guide meaningful transitions. She began in law, inspired by a field trip to Southeast Asia that sparked her passion for environmental and human rights issues. After years of working in environmental litigation and leading pro bono work at a global firm, she made a bold shift into sustainable investing. Today, she heads Responsible Investment at the Church Commissioners for England.</p><p>“It comes in waves. These issues around sustainable investing, whether it’s climate change or geopolitical issues, are not going away. Financial markets &amp; companies will always have to deal with them”, said Olga during the interview. </p><p>What stayed with me most was her perspective on resilience. Sustainable investing has seen waves of momentum and pushback - from the financial crisis to today’s ESG backlash - but Olga’s advice is clear: stay focused. The issues we’re addressing are long-term and deeply important. Her story is a great reminder to keep showing up, even when the road gets bumpy.</p>