Chief Alternatives Officer

Position Overview:

The Chief Alternatives Officer is responsible for leading the organization's alternative investment strategy, including private equity, hedge funds, real estate, infrastructure, venture capital, and other non-traditional asset classes. The CAO will drive portfolio diversification, enhance returns, and manage risks associated with alternative investments while aligning with the institution's overall investment objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Alternatives Strategy & Asset Allocation

• Develop and execute alternative investment strategies aligned with overall portfolio objectives.
• Determine allocation across private equity, hedge funds, real estate, infrastructure, and other alternative assets.
• Identify new investment opportunities and emerging asset classes.

2. Portfolio Management & Performance

• Oversee performance of alternative investment portfolios.
• Monitor returns, liquidity profiles, and diversification benefits.
• Evaluate portfolio performance against benchmarks and targets.

3. Investment Sourcing & Due Diligence

• Lead sourcing of alternative investment opportunities, including fund selection and direct investments.
• Conduct and oversee due diligence on fund managers, assets, and investment structures.
• Negotiate investment terms and agreements.

4. Risk Management & Compliance

• Assess risks related to illiquidity, valuation, leverage, and market conditions.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal investment policies.
• Establish governance frameworks for alternative investments.

5. Manager & Partnership Oversight

• Build and maintain relationships with external fund managers, general partners (GPs), and investment firms.
• Monitor manager performance and ensure alignment with investment objectives.
• Evaluate and onboard new investment partners.

6. Product Development & Innovation

• Develop alternative investment products and solutions for clients or internal portfolios.
• Explore co-investment and direct investment opportunities.
• Stay updated on trends in alternative investments and market innovation.

7. Reporting & Analytics

• Develop reporting frameworks for alternative investments, including performance, risk, and valuation metrics.
• Provide insights and recommendations to executive leadership and the Board.
• Ensure transparency in reporting and valuation methodologies.

8. Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and mentor teams focused on alternative investments, research, and portfolio management.
• Build a high-performance culture with strong analytical and investment expertise.
• Drive continuous learning and professional development.

9. Stakeholder Engagement

• Communicate alternative investment strategies and performance to stakeholders, clients, and investors.
• Support fundraising, investor relations, and client acquisition initiatives.
• Represent the organization in industry forums and investment committees.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business, or related field; MBA, CFA, or equivalent preferred.
• 12–15+ years of experience in alternative investments, asset management, or investment banking.
• Proven track record in managing alternative investment portfolios.
• Strong understanding of private markets, fund structures, and investment strategies.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Strong analytical and investment evaluation skills.
• Deep knowledge of alternative asset classes and market trends.
• Strategic thinking and portfolio diversification expertise.
• Leadership and stakeholder management abilities.
• Strong negotiation and due diligence capabilities.

Performance Metrics:

• Returns from alternative investment portfolios.
• Portfolio diversification and risk-adjusted performance.
• Success of investment sourcing and deal execution.
• Performance of external fund managers.
• Compliance and governance adherence.