Paddy Dowdall to join LGPS Central as investment director for local investment
Author: LAPF Investments | Published: January 23, 2026
LGPS Central have confirmed the appointment of Paddy Dowdall as the organisation’s new investment director for local investment.
Joining the pool in April, he’ll be responsible for the pool’s approach to local investment, working with partner funds and key stakeholders to deliver against evolving strategy requirements.
He brings with him extensive experience in the LGPS, with almost 14 years at Merseyside Pension Fund followed by a further year at the Greater Manchester Pension Fund spanning a range of investment governance roles.
The appointment in local investment is expected to play an increasingly important role in local economic development, with funds needing to balance risk and return alongside social and environmental impact.
In his role, Dowdall will work with partner funds combined authorities, Homes England, the National Wealth Fund, and a wide range of local delivery partners to help translate government ambition into investable opportunities.
Reflecting on his appointment, he said: “This is an exciting new challenge. My immediate priority will be getting to know all 15 Partner Funds and gaining a deeper understanding of where each is on its local investment journey.
“Implementing the Pensions Review is a key focus, and I am looking forward to working collaboratively to deliver outcomes that meet both fiduciary and local objectives.”
LGPS Central Chief Investment Officer Jayne Atkinson added: “This is a strong hire for LGPS Central.
“Paddy brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted understanding of local investment from a Fund perspective, which will be essential in supporting our partner funds to deliver on their local investment objectives in line with government ambition.
“He will hit the ground running, including developing a local investments team to deliver for our Partner Funds.”
