Job Description
The Challenge:
Our client is seeking an Investment Lead to bolster our efforts in supporting early-stage investment deals across West and East Africa for our organization. This pivotal role is instrumental in advancing Ingressive Capital’s position as a leading fund in Africa in terms of DPI, and in establishing a premier global team focused on pre-seed and seed investments in Africa. Key responsibilities encompass identifying, evaluating, and finalizing investment opportunities, alongside offering guidance to founders and portfolio companies.
We’re seeking a dynamic and strategic individual with a keen financial aptitude. The ideal candidate thrives in autonomous settings, possesses a profound grasp of the tech ecosystem, and boasts extensive experience in identifying and supporting outstanding startups across Africa.
In close collaboration with the General Partner and Investment Partner, the Investment Lead will spearhead the development of an efficient, data-centric investment framework, while actively cultivating new investment prospects and executing deals. Furthermore, active participation in refining the firm’s investment strategy and process is anticipated, as we strive to assemble a top-tier team that prioritizes high-growth, innovative tech ventures and delivers substantial returns to esteemed limited partners.
Role Requirements:
Lead the investment process, including sourcing and assessing opportunities in pre-seed and follow-on rounds within the West and East Africa technology sector.
Build and maintain a robust pipeline through networking, industry events, and relationships with entrepreneurs and stakeholders.
Leverage personal network to source and diligence unique opportunities.
Conduct thorough due diligence and market research of companies against criteria such as business model, market dynamics, technology, competitive landscape, emerging trends, and financial metrics.
Conduct independent research and evaluate leads to enhance the fund’s investment thesis.
Lead the evaluation and structuring of investment opportunities, including negotiation of terms.
Manage weekly pipeline calls and report on key metrics.
Ensure processes and procedures are established and upheld within the investment team.
Ensure pipeline responses within 8 weeks or less and convert them to investments or community members.
Manage IC Scout community and quarterly speakers, ensuring relevant content.
Contribute to investment strategies aligning with the firm’s thesis, analyzing market trends, identifying emerging technologies, and evaluating risks and rewards.
Challenge firm assumptions and improve investment department efficiency.
Provide input on marketing strategies to attract early-stage founders and position Ingressive Capital as a backer.
Lead weekly investment committee meetings and enhance the firm’s reputation.
Work closely with portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance, and connecting them with potential customers and partners.
Use deal management software (Affinity) to ensure data accuracy.
Advise on portfolio construction, thesis adjustments, and data analysis for top quartile performance.
Provide introductions and support for raising follow-on capital and participation in international incubators and accelerators.
Cultivate relationships with co-investors, potential acquirers, and growth follow-on investors, facilitating introductions and leading fund transactions.
Stay updated on technological trends, market developments, and emerging opportunities.
Share insights to refine the investment strategy.
Provide economics/data analysis to advise on major market trends and contribute to annual thesis audits.
Build and maintain strong relationships with entrepreneurs, management teams, co-investors, and industry partners.
Represent the firm at industry events and conferences to enhance visibility and generate pipeline.
Develop local pre-seed and pre-founder community in West and East Africa, sourcing founders from top technical universities.
Qualifications:
A degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field is preferred; relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
Strong financial modeling and analytical skills, with expertise in analyzing financial statements, conducting market research, and evaluating risks and rewards.
Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for identifying and nurturing innovative companies and mentoring founders.
Must-Haves:
Proven track record of successful investments and portfolio management, with strong negotiation and deal structuring expertise.
Experience in venture capital, private equity, investment banking, or related areas focused on technology.
Deep understanding of technology trends, market dynamics, and investment strategies.
Strong collaboration and excellent communication skills, with experience in building and maintaining relationships with entrepreneurs and stakeholders.
Experience overseeing or being actively involved in the sale of a company, understanding how to generate DPI.
