NorNAB announces the appointment of Jan Erik Saugestad as its new Chair, effective immediately. Mr. Saugestad brings strong thought leadership and a wealth of experience in sustainable investments.
Saugestad is a prominent figure in the investment community, known for his leadership and commitment to sustainability. As CEO of Storebrand Asset Management, he has played a pivotal role in driving the company's ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) agenda and building the firm’s recognition in sustainable finance.
As Chair of NorNAB, Saugestad will leverage his extensive experience and vision to advance the mission of a young and ambitious organization. NorNAB launched officially in September 2023 with the purpose to promote the growth of impact investing in Norway, and drive positive outcomes towards achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
"It’s a mission that’s easy to get behind, but that will require dedication and hard work to achieve. I am excited to join NorNAB and to contribute to the growth and development of impact investing in Norway," states Saugestad. Adding that "all investments have an impact. It is our shared responsibility to strive for investments to contribute to positive outcomes, while we also deliver solid returns.
Impact investing is a fast-growing investment approach. While the global market topped the trillion dollar mark already in 2022 (Global Impact Investing Network), there are signs of significant movement also in Norway; a recently published NorNAB survey indicated that local players allocate more than 8,8 bn USD to impact investing, punching well above their weight compared to European peers. Saugestad’s appointment comes at an inflection point in the market, with impact investing gaining interest and momentum that points to its entry into the mainstream.
"We are thrilled to welcome Jan Erik Saugestad as the new Chair of NorNAB," said Karl Olav G. Sørensen, CEO of NorNAB. "His track record in sustainable finance and his interest in impact investing align perfectly with our vision and goals." "We are confident that his expertise and leadership will be instrumental in driving meaningful change and inspire others to join the movement towards a more sustainable future."
Saugestad takes over the baton from Espen Daae of Ferd Social Entrepreneurs, who has led the organization through the critical startup phase. Since its inception, NorNAB has already achieved several significant milestones, including a landmark market survey, official uptake in the global GSG Impact network, publication of a guide to impact investing, and rallying more than 30 organizations in the Norwegian impact ecosystem under the NorNAB umbrella.
