The Allocator’s Edge: Scaling ODD with Data and Digital Insight

The Allocation Agenda

The Allocation Agenda with Jason Windt

Guest: Jason Windt, Director of Operational Due Diligence, Impact and Private Equity at M&G Investments

Host: Steve MacDonald

In this episode of The Allocation Agenda, Steve MacDonald sits down with Jason Windt, a leader in operational due diligence at M&G Investments, to explore how data is transforming the investment management industry.

Jason shares his journey from semi-pro cricket in South Africa to leading operational risk management across 500+ funds with just a team of three. He unpacks how digital tools, data integration, and automation are reshaping the way allocators monitor risk, manage compliance, and scale their operations—without increasing headcount.

You’ll hear:

• Why digitizing operational workflows is critical for scale and efficiency

• How real-time data access enabled M&G to navigate the US regional banking crisis

• The power of automated DDQs and benchmark dashboards for better fund manager engagement

• Use cases of AI, from legal reviews to ongoing risk monitoring

• The importance of cross-system integration for a unified view of risk and opportunity

Jason also discusses the evolving role of AI in operational due diligence and why governance is as crucial as innovation. His advice? Embrace digital adoption and data transparency to unlock smarter decision-making and build more resilient investment portfolios.