ACE Advisors is a women-owned and led independent advisory firm that is dedicated to promoting innovation for better development and brings a strategic cross-domain perspective with deep expertise in accelerating public sector delivery and private sector development. With this context, ACE believes startups are an essential part of the development process and we believe that startups have the potential to create jobs, leading to economic growth and social transformation. 

At ACE Advisors, we are dedicated to supporting startups by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and advisory services to thrive. We strive to create a vibrant startup ecosystem that fosters innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth. By leveraging our deep expertise and network, we aim to bridge the gap between startups, investors, and industry partners, creating opportunities for mutual growth and impact.

We seek an experienced Investment Manager to play a pivotal role in evaluating investment opportunities and providing hands-on support to our portfolio of startups. You will be responsible for identifying promising startups, conducting thorough due diligence, leading investment negotiations, and mentoring companies through their growth journey. As our Investment Manager, you will work cross-functionally within our firm and with external stakeholders to drive deal execution and maximize returns. We are looking for people who are willing to work hard and are passionate about making a difference to facilitate our startup program to help drive the startup's journey to success. 

The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and it is a full-time position that requires full commitment.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Deal Sourcing and Origination: Source new investment opportunities through robust networking within the startup ecosystem. Evaluate startup business models, credentials, market potential and financial projections to identify promising candidates for diligence.

• Investment Analysis: Conduct end-to-end due diligence on potential portfolio companies through financial model review, market and competitive analysis, evaluation of intellectual property, and legal/compliance processes.

• Deal Execution: Lead term sheet negotiations, assist legal counsel in closing processes, and guide startups through legal agreements to obtain favorable investment terms. Track deal progress, milestones, and address any roadblocks.

• Portfolio Management: Monitor portfolio company performance against objectives. Provide guidance, mentorship and connections to additional resources as needed. Report regularly to stakeholders on portfolio health, progress and value creation.

• Fundraising and Reporting: Create investor presentations, reports and updates to advocate for potential deals, communicate portfolio progress, and generate shareholder support for new deals.

• Ecosystem Building: Maintain active involvement within the startup community through events, network building and collaboration to source high-potential deals and support portfolio companies.

• Risk Mitigation: Continuously assess portfolio risks through monitoring of macro trends, company performance, compliance and intellectual property issues. Recommend actions to optimize investment outcomes.  

Benefits:

• A competitive salary and benefit packages

• An opportunity to work with a dynamic and competitive start-up team

• A chance to make a real impact on the startup ecosystem in Ethiopia

Direct supervisor: Managing Partner

Department: Investment Department

Job Grade: Senior-level (8-10+ Years experience)

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree in international development, Economics, Finance, Statistics, or another relevant field;

• Minimum 8 – 10+ years of proven experience in venture capital, banking environments, private equity managing, or as an entrepreneur actively involved in fundraising.

• Track record of successfully evaluating early-stage companies, performing financial modeling and forecasts, and leading investment transactions.

• Proven capability to analyze business models, assess market opportunity and competition, and evaluate management teams.

• Passion for the startup ecosystem and entrepreneurship, displaying a comprehensive understanding of the needs, challenges, and opportunities faced by startups;

• Strong understanding of business development, fundraising, and leadership principles within the startup context

• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to effectively analyze data, identify trends and patterns, and deliver actionable insights to make informed decisions for program improvement and strategic planning

• Hands-on approach to supporting portfolio companies through product development, partnerships, hiring, and operational milestones.

• Self-starter mentality with excellent written and verbal communication to represent our fund and advocate for investments.

• Ability to multi-task and prioritize effectively across an active pipeline of deals in a fast-paced environment.

• MBA or related advanced degree required. CFA or similar certification is a plus.

How To Apply

• If you are a passionate professional with relevant experience, please submit your resume and cover letter for consideration at info@aceadvisors.org with the e-mail subject line ‘Application to Investment Manager Position’.

• We are an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourage women to apply for this position and are committed to creating a workplace that is inclusive and supportive of all employees.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

We will accept and review applications on a rolling basis after the deadline if a suitable candidate has not been identified.