Chief Investment Officer (CIO) – Venture Capital & Alternative Assets

Job Description

Posted on: 
March 14, 2025

We are seeking a visionary and entrepreneurial Chief Investment Officer (CIO) to lead the investment strategy of a Milan-based family office with a dual focus: early-stage venture capital and unique alternative asset classes including collectible cars, fine art, high jewelry, and other passion investments.

The ideal candidate will blend deep analytical capabilities with refined taste and market awareness across non-traditional investment verticals. This individual will report directly to the principals and be responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and managing a diversified portfolio that reflects both strong financial returns and the family’s cultural and aesthetic values.

This is a hybrid role with a primary base in Milan and occasional travel to international events, auctions, and investment forums.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the investment strategy and allocation across early-stage VC and high-value alternative assets.
  • Source and vet venture capital opportunities (direct investments, funds, co-investments) in innovative sectors.
  • Curate and manage a portfolio of collectible assets (cars, art, jewelry), ensuring both value appreciation and preservation.
  • Develop relationships with galleries, dealers, auction houses, and niche investment networks.
  • Attend global art fairs, car shows, VC demo days, and industry conferences as a representative of the family office.
  • Oversee due diligence, acquisition, negotiation, and exit processes.
  • Monitor portfolio performance and deliver regular reports to the family principals.
  • Collaborate with legal, tax, and estate planning professionals to ensure strategic structuring of assets.
  • Stay informed on cultural trends, emerging artists, and early-stage markets relevant to the investment themes.
  • Job Requirements

    • 8+ years of experience in venture capital, private investments, or managing passion assets for UHNWI or family offices.
    • Proven track record in sourcing and managing successful VC investments or alternative asset acquisitions.
    • Strong network within startup ecosystems, luxury asset markets, and high-end collector communities.
    • Passion for art, design, automobiles, or jewelry — with a discerning eye and informed point of view.
    • Analytical mindset with a creative edge and entrepreneurial spirit.
    • High level of discretion, trustworthiness, and emotional intelligence.
    • Comfortable working independently in a dynamic, international, and personalized setting.

    Required Education

    Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Art History, Business, Economics, or a related field (required) MBA, CFA, or other relevant postgraduate qualifications (preferred) Additional training in art valuation, gemology, or automotive history considered a strong asset

    Languages

    English & Italian: Fluent (required) French, German, Russian: Highly appreciated

    Other Compensation

    Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience) Performance-based annual bonus Discretionary profit share in successful exits or appreciation events Benefits package including travel allowances, event participation, and wellness coverage Opportunities to shape a unique legacy portfolio in collaboration with the family

    Apply now

    More job openings