Ms Stevanovic joined Platypus as a Senior Equities Analyst in 2008, before being appointed Portfolio Manager for Platypus’ flagship equities portfolio in 2016. Platypus was founded in 1998 and remains one of Australia’s most successful equities managers—its consistent investment style and proven investment process has delivered for clients for more than 25 years.

During her 15-year tenure with Platypus, Ms Stevanovic has been an integral member of the investment team and worked closely with Prasad Patkar, Head of Investments, achieving excellent investment outcomes for Platypus clients.

Platypus Chair, Geoff Black paid tribute to Mr Adamson’s service, before welcoming Ms Stevanovic’s appointment.

“On behalf of the Board and the broader Platypus team, I would like to firstly thank Gary for the exceptional leadership and vision he has provided as Platypus CEO and acknowledge the significance of the contribution he has made to Platypus since joining the company as Chief Operating Officer in 2003. Over this time Platypus has grown from managing $40 million in assets in 2003 to some $5 billion in assets and funds under advice on behalf of some of Australia’s largest institutions and super funds,” said Mr Black.

“The Board is delighted to announce Jelena’s appointment as CEO. Jelena is a valued and respected leader in the Platypus business and her deep understanding of, and contribution to, Platypus’ people-centred and collegiate culture has been well received by staff and clients. Jelena is uniquely placed to build on Platypus’ strong track record as one of Australia’s leading equities funds management businesses and we look forward to watching her positively shape the business in future.” Ms Stevanovic said she is excited by the prospect of leading Platypus’ next phase of growth.

“I am delighted to have been given this opportunity. Platypus’ strong performance track record, its talented and diverse team and client-first culture have underpinned the success of the business over last two decades. I am very much looking forward to building on these successful foundations, to deliver superior outcomes for a broader range of investors into the future.”

With Ms Stevanovic’s appointment, and in line with Platypus’s well-considered succession planning, Mr Stephen Butel, an analyst with Platypus since 2017, has been appointed to the role of Portfolio Manager.

For media enquiries contact:
Penny Bold, Corporate Affairs Lead, Wealth & Capital Markets
M: 0400 567 937
E: pbold@australianunity.com.au

About Platypus Asset Management
A specialist Australian equities manager, Platypus Asset Management was established in 1998 with funds from family and friends. Platypus currently manages approximately $5 billion in assets on behalf of some of Australia’s largest superannuation funds and institutions, as well as a base of smaller investors.

In 2021 Australian Unity acquired 100 per cent of the issued share capital in Platypus Asset Management having been a joint venture partner in the business since 2006.

Information regarding the Australian Unity/Platypus Australian Equities Fund can be found on the Platypus Asset Management website –www.platypusassetmanagement.com.au

About Australian Unity
Established in 1840, Australian Unity is a member-owned wellbeing company with more than 385,000 members and more than 700,000 customers. Our range of health, wealth and care products and services provides member, customer and community value that is supportive of personal and community wellbeing.