Investment Associate Principal – Impact Investment

About the role

Network Finance is seeking an Investment Associate Principal to join its impact‑investment team in Johannesburg. You will work across the full investment lifecycle, originating, evaluating, structuring and executing deals that support high‑growth SMEs.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain a network of referral partners, investors, founders and ecosystem stakeholders to generate quality deal flow.
• Source, assess and manage a pipeline of investment opportunities at various stages.
• Develop and present investment theses supported by commercial analysis, financial modelling and market research.
• Lead financial, commercial and operational due diligence and prepare detailed valuation models.
• Structure and negotiate debt, mezzanine and equity transactions.
• Prepare investment memoranda and recommendations for the investment committee.
• Oversee transaction execution, including legal documentation and closing.
• Support post‑investment portfolio management, value‑creation initiatives and performance monitoring.
• Mentor junior investment professionals and contribute to process improvement.

Required profile

• Relevant postgraduate or undergraduate degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Engineering, Law or a related quantitative discipline.
• MBA, CA(SA), CFA or CAIA qualification is advantageous.
• Minimum 5 years of experience across the investment lifecycle, including deal origination, execution and portfolio management.
• Proven experience in SME investing, private equity, venture capital, development finance, corporate finance or strategy consulting.

Required skills

• Financial modelling
• Valuation analysis
• Financial analysis

What we offer

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on high‑growth SMEs.
• Dynamic, collaborative investment environment.
• Professional development and mentorship.