Franklin Global Real Assets Segregated Fund – Addition of Portfolio Manager
Plan sponsors may wish to consider whether this investment news has any implications for the investment options available within their plans. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada purchases units of the funds listed below, which are established as segregated funds in accordance with the Insurance Companies Act (Canada).
This is an informational update only and you don’t need to take any action as a result of this news.
Franklin Templeton Investments (FTI) announced the promotion of Sam Roach to Portfolio Manager (PM) for the Franklin Global Real Assets Segregated fund (the Fund) as of September 30, 2025. Roach joined current lead PMs Andrew Knox, as well as Raymond Jacobs.
Prior to joining FTI, Roach was a PM at the City of Calgary where he oversaw the City’s externally managed investment portfolio. He also worked as an institutional equity research analyst for 10 years. Roach joined FTI in 2023 as a Research Analyst. In this capacity, his primary responsibilities focused on infrastructure research and underwriting within the Franklin Global Real Assets strategies. His duties included conducting due diligence on potential investments and providing support for portfolio construction decisions. In his new role as PM, Roach will continue to focus on underwriting, due diligence, and portfolio construction. FTI has indicated that Roach's promotion is part of a broader career development and succession planning initiative. Knox will retain his position as the lead PM and lead decision-maker for the Fund.
About the Fund
The Fund is a globally diversified portfolio of both private and public real asset investments. The Fund invests in global infrastructure, commercial real estate, agriculture and timber.
GRS Investment Solutions team view
We’re comfortable with the promotion of Roach given his investment industry experience. Additionally, with Knox maintaining the position of lead PM, the addition of Roach as PM does not alter the strategic direction of the Fund.
Real Asset funds are designed to help improve diversification, lower risk and provide a stable income stream for investors. To learn more on the role that real assets can play in Capital Accumulation plans, please refer to our white paper.
If you are interested in learning more about real assets, please connect with the Sun Life GRS Investment Solutions team.
Questions?
Please contact your Sun Life Group Retirement Services representative.*
* In Quebec, registered as a Group annuity plans advisor.