The Executive Director, African Wildlife Capital (AWC), will work in partnership with African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), AWC's Chief Investment Officer, and the appointed fund administrator of AWC to scale up Africa's first impact investing vehicle for conservation enterprise. Established in 2011, AWC utilizes private sector capital to promote commercial ventures that support the conservation of threatened landscapes in Africa. AWC has already raised and allocated US$7 million across nine investments, and now aims to significantly scale up operations. AWC was founded and is backed by the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF).
Responsibilities
Business Development
- Lead in a $40 million fundraising effort by identifying, cultivating and closing relationships with institutional and high net worth individuals, while developing a platform for further pipeline building.
- In partnership with AWC’s parent organization, establish a database of current and potential investors, and establish systems and timelines for communications.
- Oversee development of AWC’s marketing materials to best make the case for investment in conservation enterprise.
- Build AWC’s network and influence through appropriate channels, including events, individual outreach and networking.
- Coach other parties (board, parent organization fundraisers, AWC team) in making an effective pitch for AWC.
General Management
- Working with the appointed fund administrator in Mauritius, oversee AWC’s financial, administrative, and legal compliance activities.
- Establish and oversee overall budgets in compliance with AWC’s business plan.
- Oversee investor relationships on an ongoing basis, ensuring financial and impact reporting is provided timely.
- Manage operations of AWC’s Board of Directors and Investment Committee.
- Working with AWC’s Chief Investment Officer, oversee compliance of investee companies with AWC financing contracts.
- Coordinate with AWC’s parent organization to perform conservation audits.
Requirements
- 10+ years of demonstrated success in fundraising, sales, or client management.
- Dynamic social entrepreneur with significant credibility in the impact investing or private equity space.
- Exceptional relationship and interpersonal skills.
- Confident and compelling public speaker.
- Strong business background, including financial and administrative management.
- Strong aptitude to operate independently and collaborate across a geographically dispersed global team.
- Commitment to conservation in Africa.
- Bachelor's degree is required, Master’s degree preferred.
