Shannon O'Mara's New Leadership Role at Loomis Sayles
BOSTON--Loomis Sayles & Company, a leader in global investment management, recently announced the promotion of Shannon O’Mara, CFA, to co-director of credit research. She will collaborate with Chris Gootkind, CFA, who has been at the helm of the credit research team since 2010 and continues to serve as co-director. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen the team's direction while Shannon simultaneously maintains her role as a senior analyst focusing on the home construction and building materials sectors.
The Importance of Credit Research at Loomis Sayles
The credit research team at Loomis Sayles is fundamental to the firm’s reputation for deep, proprietary research. Providing valuable insights on market trends and issuer specifics enables investment teams to make sound decisions and target sustainable returns for their clients. Analysts in this team offer forward-looking assessments revolving around credit risks and identifying relative value based on rigorous, bottom-up, fundamental research.
Advancements in Leadership
David Waldman, the chief investment officer, emphasized Shannon's reputation in her field, stating, "Shannon has an outstanding reputation as a credit analyst and has been a trusted partner to investment teams since joining the firm." He added that her leadership has been pivotal in the evolution of the credit research team and that she is instrumental in fostering broader inclusion within the investment sector.
Establishing the UWIN Program
In 2015, Shannon O'Mara created the Undergraduate Women’s Investment Network (UWIN) internship and mentorship program to tackle the disparity of representation in junior research roles. This initiative has positively impacted over 250 undergraduates from nearly twenty schools across New England, with 13 Loomis Sayles employees now being graduates of the UWIN program. Such contributions underline Shannon's commitment to enhancing diversity in the investment management field.
Recognition as a Leading Female Innovator
On a noteworthy date, **Pensions & Investments** honored Shannon for her influential leadership alongside her contributions to institutional investing and her beneficial UWIN initiative, reflective of her recognition as one of the 2024 Influential Women in Institutional Investing.
A Joint Venture in Leadership
Chris Gootkind expressed his pleasure in working alongside Shannon, stating, “As associate director since 2015, Shannon has been a terrific partner in managing our global credit research team. I’m delighted to have her join me as co-director, aiding in our mission to amplify our research capabilities.”
Shannon O'Mara's Career Milestones
Shannon’s path in the investment industry began in 1993, and she joined Loomis Sayles in 1998. Her remarkable journey was recognized in 2019 when InvestmentNews honored her as a Women to Watch. Previously, she excelled as a credit risk manager and lending officer at JP Morgan, showcasing her extensive expertise in the financial sector. She holds a BA in economics from the University of Rochester and management certificates in finance and accounting from the university's Simon Business School.
ABOUT LOOMIS SAYLES
Founded in 1926, Loomis Sayles & Company has consistently aimed to meet the investment needs of institutional and mutual fund clients worldwide. The firm's dedicated investors utilize comprehensive proprietary research alongside risk analysis to facilitate informed decision-making. Their teams—comprising portfolio managers, strategists, analysts, and traders—work collaboratively to evaluate market conditions and discern investment opportunities across traditional and alternative asset classes.
Commitment to Client Success
Loomis Sayles remains committed to delivering attractive, risk-adjusted returns. With an impressive $359.7 billion in assets under management, the firm has ingrained trust and respect among its global clientele. Loomis Sayles has the resources and foresight necessary to uncover value across diverse market sectors, reinforcing its steadfast pledge to its clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who has been promoted at Loomis Sayles?
Shannon O'Mara has been promoted to co-director of credit research.
2. What role does Shannon O'Mara hold now?
Shannon O'Mara is now co-director of credit research, overseeing strategic guidance alongside Chris Gootkind.
3. What is the UWIN program?
The UWIN program is an internship and mentorship initiative launched by Shannon to improve diversity in investment roles.
4. When was Shannon recognized as an influential woman?
Shannon was recognized by Pensions & Investments as one of the 2024 Influential Women in Institutional Investing.
5. What is the history of Loomis Sayles?
Loomis Sayles has provided investment services since 1926, focusing on risk analysis and comprehensive research.
