BlackRock Inc. has appointed Brian Deese global head of its sustainable investing group, Pensions & Investments reported, citing an internal memo.

Deese is replacing Deborah Winshel, who is now head of philanthropy. Deese was former President Barack Obama's senior adviser for climate and energy policy, according to the report.

Deese, based in Boston, will lead and expand the 11-member team that currently oversees $195 billion in assets.