When did you join Arise and why?
I was part of the team who formed Arise and joined Arise from the outset of the company. Personally, Arise was an idea and dream which lingered in my mind for several years and to see the actual establishment of the company provided great fulfilment.
What does your role at Arise entail?
My main role at Arise encompasses two main functions, firstly I take responsibility for the monitoring of our current portfolio, and secondly, I am tasked to expand our portfolio with new investments. From these two functions flows numerous other responsibilities like pipeline building, brand and market development, training of other staff members, portfolio valuations, identifying areas of portfolio enhancements, both from a financial and development point of view.
What aspect of your job do you enjoy?
I enjoy the unpredictability and constant change in our investment landscape. I always tell people that I am in the business of problem solving, as investing in Africa comes with a unique set of challenges and opportunities.
What has your top 3 highlights been?
The three main highlights to date have been to be part of team which was responsible for the establishment of Arise, the conclusion of the first Arise annual conference and being nominated to the board of BPR to represent Arise.
What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?
The most challenging aspect of my job is to fulfil our mandate within our minority investment mandate. Our portfolio investments can at times present very challenging situations and trying to resolve these issues while you don’t have control over the investments can be really challenging.
Sum up Arise in one sentence
The new kid on the block who will redefine investing in the financial sector in Africa.
