Carolyn Gilchrist joined Igneo Infrastructure Partners as global head of investor relations after a three-month career pause that coincided with a breast cancer diagnosis. The former Stonepeak managing director saw an opportunity to build a unified IR function for the firm, which had operated in a decentralised manner across Australia, Europe, and the US. Igneo aims to grow assets under management to A$50 billion within four years.

Gilchrist's appointment aligns with Igneo's strategy to internationalise operations and create more efficient internal communications. The firm, formerly known as First Sentier Investors, had operated without a dedicated global IR head until her arrival. Gilchrist brings experience from Stonepeak's global investor relations team, where she witnessed how centralised systems can create harmonious front-end operations.

Despite strong investment track records across regions, Gilchrist identified an opportunity to elevate Igneo's investor-facing presence. The firm has launched several infrastructure funds including EDIF IV targeting $4 billion and the open-end Global Diversified Infrastructure Fund with over $7.5 billion in capital. North American investors are showing increased interest in European strategies, often asking how they missed learning about Igneo's returns. The firm has expanded its North American IR team and engaged Campbell Lutyens to support capital raising initiatives as infrastructure markets experience a resurgence.