Who is the new Chief Investment Officer of the Future Fund?

The Future Fund has appointed Richard Brandweiner as its new Chief Investment Officer (CIO), effective 1 July. Brandweiner is a veteran of the Australian financial services sector, having previously served as the CEO of Pendal Group and CIO of First State Super (now Aware Super).

Why is the CIO appointment at the Future Fund significant for Australian investors?

As Australia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Future Fund manages over $200 billion in assets to benefit future generations of Australians. The CIO is responsible for the fund’s overarching investment strategy and its ability to meet long-term return targets.

What is Richard Brandweiner’s professional background?

Richard Brandweiner brings extensive institutional experience to the Future Fund, specifically from his time as CEO of Pendal Group and CIO of First State Super. Most recently, he served on the board of Australian Ethical Investment, a position he will resign from to take this role.

When does Richard Brandweiner officially start his role at the Future Fund?

Richard Brandweiner is scheduled to formally commence his duties as CIO on 1 July. This follows a transition period after the departure of the previous CIO, Ben Samild, in late 2025.

How does the Future Fund’s leadership change affect its investment strategy?

The Future Fund has indicated that it intends to maintain its trajectory of delivering robust risk-adjusted returns under Brandweiner's leadership. While a new CIO often brings fresh perspectives on market cycles, the fund’s core mandate—to strengthen the Commonwealth's long-term financial position—remains unchanged.

What was the reason for the vacancy in the Future Fund’s CIO position?

The position became vacant following the departure of Ben Samild in September 2025. The fund conducted an intensive search over several months to find a successor with the requisite institutional experience and leadership capabilities.

What is the relationship between the Future Fund and the Australian Government?

The Future Fund is Australia’s sovereign wealth fund, established by the government to generate long-term returns and offset future public sector liabilities. While it operates independently via a Board of Guardians, its performance is a key component of Australia’s national balance sheet.

What should retail investors watch for following this announcement?

Retail investors should monitor for any strategic updates or portfolio rebalancing news released by the Future Fund after the 1 July start date. While the fund does not trade like a retail account, its moves in domestic equities, infrastructure, and private equity often set a benchmark for institutional sentiment in Australia.

Future Fund appoints Richard Brandweiner as new CIO

Written by Heidi Cuthbert Published Apr. 23 2026Last Updated Apr. 23 2026

The Future Fund has appointed Richard Brandweiner as its new chief investment officer.

The announcement marks the conclusion of an intensive search to fill the vacancy left by Ben Samild, who departed the sovereign wealth fund in September 2025.

Brandweiner, a highly regarded figure within the Australian financial services landscape, will formally commence his duties on July 1.

To accept the prestigious mandate, he will step down from the board of Australian Ethical Investment.

His appointment brings a wealth of institutional knowledge to the senior leadership team; he previously served as the CEO of Pendal Group and held the CIO position at First State Super (now Aware Super).

"The Future Fund has a compelling purpose as Australia’s sovereign wealth fund," Brandweiner stated, noting the institution's globally respected investment approach.

He expressed his commitment to working alongside the Board of Guardians to maintain the fund’s trajectory of delivering robust risk-adjusted returns for the Australian public.

Future Fund CEO Raphael Arndt lauded the appointment, citing Brandweiner’s proven track record.

"Richard is an experienced investor and executive who has demonstrated significant expertise in leading investment teams to achieve their mandates," Arndt said.