Skip to content Swedfund is Sweden's Development Finance Institution for sustainable investments in developing countries. Its mission is to finance and develop sustainable companies to create jobs and improve access to socially important products and services. A well-developed private sector with jobs offering decent working conditions contributes to stable communities and poverty reduction. Swedfund invests in the sectors of Energy & Climate, Financial Inclusion, Sustainable Enterprises and Food Systems.
About the role
Swedfund is seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to join its team as the Regional Director for its Nairobi office. This leadership role is instrumental in delivering on Swedfund's 2030 strategy, focusing on sustainable growth and impactful investments across East Africa. As a key representative of Swedfund in the region, the Regional Director will drive business development, foster strategic relationships, and lead a competent local team.
Key dimensions of the role
- Originate and source impactful investment opportunities aligned with Swedfund's 2030 strategy.
- Represent and promote Swedfund's presence and branding in East Africa as a leading impact investor.
- Lead and manage the Nairobi office, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture
- Support investment managers and ESG professionals in navigating complex negotiations and portfolio management challenges.
- Contribute to Swedfund’s matrix organization by aligning regional activities with sectoral heads based in Stockholm.
- Collaborate with headquarters on strategy implementation and ensure alignment with Swedfund's goals.
- Provide insights and leadership during difficult negotiations or special situations within the portfolio.
- Support private capital mobilization to enhance investment capacity and impact in the region.
Skills and qualifications
- At least 10-15 years of relevant investment experience, ideally with an international company or organization.
- Deep understanding of the local business environment, a broad local network, and an interest in sustainability and impact.
- Possesses an innovative mindset, strong networking skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively while maintaining high integrity and transparency.
- Demonstrates strong motivation, endurance, a hands-on attitude, and excellent problem-solving abilities.
- Previous experience in development finance and impact investing is desirable, along with a development-oriented approach and excellent communication skills.
- Experienced in leading and managing teams, fostering a collaborative work environment while upholding integrity, transparency, and a results-driven mindset.
Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Millar Cameron, we are dedicated to supporting our clients in building and supporting diverse and inclusive workplaces and culture, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Since 2007 Millar Cameron has specialised in sourcing leadership and keyperson talent across a number of industries, including agribusiness, international development, industrial, consumer, financial and professional services, private equity, and technology, media and telecommunications. Our mission and purpose is to positively contribute to the development of Africa, and other emerging markets, through the provision of people.