Principal
Job Description
UNITE is excited to partner with a confidential client, a leading Venture Capital firm based in Geneva, renowned for its commitment to impact investing. Our client is focused on making investments that deliver both financial returns and measurable positive impact across environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
We are seeking an experienced Principal to play a pivotal role in sourcing and managing investments in mission-driven, high-growth startups. The ideal candidate will have strong VC or private equity experience, a passion for impact investing, and a proven track record in deal origination, analysis, and portfolio management.
Responsibilities
Identify and engage with innovative startups and companies aligned with the firm’s impact investment strategy. Develop relationships with entrepreneurs and networks to generate a steady pipeline of high-impact investment opportunities.
Lead the due diligence process for potential investments, analyzing financials, market trends, business models, and impact metrics. Collaborate with internal teams to present findings to partners and contribute to investment decisions.
Provide hands-on support to portfolio companies post-investment, guiding them on strategy, operations, and scaling. Monitor the financial and social impact performance of portfolio companies, ensuring alignment with the firm’s dual financial and impact objectives.
Ensure that all investments adhere to the firm’s impact investing framework, working with portfolio companies to measure and report on impact KPIs. Communicate these results to both internal and external stakeholders effectively.
Work closely with the firm's partners, guiding junior team members and overseeing their contribution to the investment process. Engage in a collaborative, mission-driven environment where impact and financial performance go hand-in-hand.
Represent the firm at industry conferences, events, and within impact investing networks. Foster relationships with other venture capitalists, impact investors, and sector experts to position the firm as a thought leader in the space.
Job Requirements
Professional Background:
- 5-7+ years of experience in venture capital, private equity, or impact investing with a proven track record in identifying and managing investments.
- Strong experience in one or more impact sectors, such as clean energy, sustainable agriculture, healthcare, education, or financial inclusion.
Education:
- Advanced degree in finance, business administration, economics, or a relevant field.
- CFA, MBA, or similar qualifications are a plus.
Skills:
- Exceptional analytical, financial modeling, and valuation skills, with a deep understanding of venture capital structures.
- Familiarity with impact frameworks (SDGs, IRIS+ metrics, GIIN) and the ability to evaluate investments through both financial and impact lenses.
- Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build lasting relationships.
Required Education
A Master’s degree in finance, business administration, economics, or a related field is required; an MBA, CFA, or equivalent advanced qualifications are highly desirable.
Languages
Fluency in English is essential; proficiency in French or other languages is advantageous.
