Manulife Welcomes Back Brent McGowan as Global Head of Agriculture

Boston, May 14, 2025 – It’s with much enthusiasm that Manulife Investment Management (“Manulife IM”) announces the splendid return of Brent McGowan. Stepping in as Global Head and Chief Investment Officer of Agriculture, Brent is set to steer the agriculture division towards greater growth and performance.

Brent McGowan: The Man of the Hour

Brent McGowan, a seasoned veteran with 30 years in the food and agricultural domain, previously held the position of Chief Operating Officer at Novus Ag. Prior to this, he was the Global Head of Agricultural Operations at Manulife IM. During his previous tenure, he managed health, safety, and environmental objectives, all while meeting client expectations and maintaining profitability.

His return has certainly brought much optimism. Anne Valentine Andrews, Global Head of Private Markets at Manulife IM, expressed delight, remarking that Brent’s illustrious background in agricultural operations will cultivate new opportunities for investors and drive transformational change.

A Wealth of Experience

During his earlier stint at Manulife IM, Brent was instrumental in guiding the firm’s agricultural operations. Notably, he spearheaded transformational efforts and built trusted relationships within the industry. As Brent assumes his new role, Oliver Williams, the former Global Head of Agriculture Investments, will transition to a strategic advisor role. Together, they focus on investment strategy and execution.

Oliver Williams shared his confidence in Brent, stating, “Brent’s extensive experience and insights will be crucial as we navigate the complexities of the agricultural industry. His strategic initiatives are vital for our growth.”

Manulife’s Global Leadership in Agricultural Investment

The agricultural business of Manulife IM manages a remarkable portfolio valued at USD 4.2 billion. With over 35 years of experience, the firm covers 400,000 acres and offers investment solutions across various commodity types. This offers investors a wealth of opportunities in Australia, Canada, Chile, and the United States.

Manulife IM is not just limited to agriculture. Their diversified private markets platform includes sectors like infrastructure, real estate, private equity, private credit, and timberland. This diversification helps them provide comprehensive solutions for institutional and retail investors, aligning with their long-term goals.

The Journey Ahead with Manulife

“It is indeed a privilege to lead such a talented team,” Brent shared, brimming with enthusiasm. Manulife’s commitment to responsibly stewarding farmland and contributing to global nutrition is inspiring. Brent is excited to play a part in this journey and help in bringing sustainable food and fibre to tables worldwide.

To learn more about Manulife Investment Management’s agricultural capabilities, you may explore further here.

About Manulife Wealth & Asset Management

Manulife Wealth & Asset Management is part of the Manulife Financial Corporation family, serving 19 million people globally. They offer investment, financial advice, and retirement services, aiming to empower people for a better tomorrow. Their heritage in risk management and expertise in both public and private markets make them a trusted partner. More information can be found at manulifeim.com.

For any media inquiries, please contact Elizabeth Bartlett at elizabeth_bartlett@manulife.com.

Discover the original announcement here.