Episode 325: Joanne Donnelly CEO of LPFA – From International Law to Local Government – Macro concepts with micro implementation

Joanne Donnelly is the CEO at the London Pensions Fund Authority, a role she has held since April of this year. She was previously Head of Pensions at the Local Government Association and prior to that worked in HM Treasury, the NHS and the UK Home Office. 

Our conversation takes us from the big picture, starting with international law, which was Joanne’s original specialist area, to the local level, her current focus, and there were many fascinating stops in between.

We hear about various roles in public agencies, and how this shaped her approach to governance and ultimately service. We hear about the paramount importance of communication early and often and how this forges the link with ultimate beneficiaries.

Why we made this? Joanne is an emerging leader in the dynamic world of public pensions, which is particularly in focus in the UK today.

Why we think you will like it? It is rare to find a leader who sets the standard in the challenging area of public pension funds. Joanne is one of these leaders, and we can learn a lot from her insights on governance, communication and transparency. 

With thanks to Baillie Gifford for sponsoring Series 4 of 2025. Baillie Gifford is a long-term investment manager, dedicated to discovering the innovations and changemakers that deliver exceptional growth opportunities for its clients.