The Investment Manager is responsible for managing Ag-West Bio’s early-stage investment portfolio and supporting the commercialization of agri-tech and bioscience ventures. This includes sourcing and evaluating opportunities, structuring deals, and working closely with entrepreneurs to help bring innovations to market. The role also fosters connections across Saskatchewan’s innovation ecosystem and contributes to Ag-West Bio’s mission of moving innovation forward.
Responsibilities:
Investment Strategy and Execution
- Lead the identification, evaluation, and development of early-stage investment opportunities in the agri-tech and bioscience sectors.
- Conduct rigorous due diligence, including financial modeling, market assessment, risk analysis, and management evaluation.
- Structure and negotiate investment terms (debt, equity, or hybrid) and prepare detailed investment memos for approval panels.
- Manage and monitor investment performance, ensuring adherence to terms and repayment schedules.
- Perform ongoing risk assessments, portfolio valuation, and long-term planning for the fund.
Stakeholder Engagement and Ecosystem Development
- Build and maintain strong relationships with entrepreneurs, co-investors, government partners, and industry stakeholders.
- Represent Ag-West Bio at industry events, pitch competitions, conferences, and networking forums.
- Promote the fund and expand deal flow by increasing Ag-West Bio’s visibility across the innovation ecosystem.
Entrepreneur and Program Support
- Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to early-stage companies, supporting commercialization, business growth, and investor readiness.
- Design and deliver support programs such as workshops, pitch prep, and advisory services.
- Help entrepreneurs connect with funding, partners, and other resources across the ecosystem.
Internal Operations and Strategic Contribution
- Maintain accurate internal systems for tracking investments, payments, and portfolio metrics.
- Contribute quarterly and annual reporting, investment committee materials, and board updates.
- Advise on strategic planning, identifying trends and gaps in the innovation landscape to shape future investment direction.
- Partner with the Director of Innovation and Business Development to support fund evolution and organizational growth.
Requirements:
- Degree in business, finance, commerce, or related field. An MBA is considered an asset.
- 5+ years of experience in investment, business development, commercialization, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of financial analysis, capital structuring, and evaluating early-stage ventures.
- Familiar with the agriculture industry.
- Proven ability to conduct due diligence, develop investment recommendations, and manage a portfolio.
- Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills across diverse sectors.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Self-motivated, collaborative, and adaptable.