Kentucky Retirement Systems names next CIO

David Peden was named interim chief investment officer of the $14.5 billion Kentucky Retirement Systems, Frankfort, said T.J. Carlson, the outgoing CIO.

“The long-term goal is to make it a permanent appointment,” Mr. Carlson said in a telephone interview.

Bill Thielen, executive director, said there are no plans at this time to conduct a nationwide search. Mr. Peden will be evaluated by the board, investment committee and Mr. Thielen on an ongoing basis.

“It's possible the interim tag will be taken off and David will be named CIO,” Mr. Thielen said.

Mr. Peden is currently the director of fixed income for the pension fund. He will keep those responsibilities while serving as interim CIO. If he is named the permanent CIO, the pension fund will recruit a new fixed-income director, Mr. Thielen said.

Messrs. Peden and Carlson will work together on a transition in the coming months. Mr. Carlson tendered his resignation last month to become CIO of the $22 billion Texas Municipal Retirement System, Austin, effective in January.