Interim Head of Root Ventures – Climate Finance Lead

About the role

Root Capital is launching a new climate‑finance facility, Root Ventures, to provide venture‑debt to businesses that build climate‑resilient agricultural communities. The Interim Head will steer the launch, shaping strategy, product design, and the first loan portfolio.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute Root Ventures’ initial investment strategy, including target segments and pipeline development.
• Design new lending products and blended‑finance mechanisms tailored to climate‑focused enterprises.
• Establish operational processes, guidelines, and risk frameworks for the venture debt program.
• Build and manage the inaugural portfolio of loans, focusing on climate ventures and financial service providers serving smallholder farmers in East Africa.
• Collaborate with senior leaders across Root Capital, board members, and external partners to align on impact objectives.
• Prepare the organization for fundraising and scaling, transitioning the role to permanent if outcomes are successful.

Required profile

• Extensive experience designing and deploying blended‑finance solutions in emerging markets.
• Demonstrated track record with debt and equity instruments, especially in impact‑investment contexts.
• Strong ability to build processes from scratch and lead cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent communication skills for stakeholder engagement at senior and board levels.

Required skills

• Deep knowledge of debt and equity financing structures.
• Expertise in blended‑finance mechanisms and impact‑investment frameworks.
• Ability to develop lending products and operational risk guidelines.