Growth and Evolution in the Year of COVID-19
Despite the challenges of COVID-19 in 2020, Persistent has been very successful in supporting our partner companies, driving innovation in the e-mobility space, initiating a COVID relief fund for energy access companies, and managing to grow the great team already in place by adding exceptional new talent and existing team members taking on new responsibilities.
Joining Persistent in July, Juan Pedro Coello de Portugal took on the role of Fundraising, Marketing and Research Manager, based in Zurich. Juan Pedro`s extensive experience in asset management with institutional investors worldwide will contribute to position Persistent as a thought leader and effective venture builder in the impact investments space.
Our presence in Africa also keeps growing, with the addition of Toukam Ngoufanke as our newest Venture Advisor, based in Nairobi, Kenya. Toukam brings to the team his deep knowledge of African markets and extensive experience in business and corporate development, having previously worked for KPMG and Mastercard. He will work alongside our partner entrepreneurs, helping them build their strategies for sustainable growth and success.
From the existing team Eva Stolz has been promoted to Principal, recognizing her relentless efforts supporting our partner companies in these difficult times and her outstanding contribution to the Persistent team. Eva shared her thoughts: “It’s been a very exciting journey so far, with lots of learnings. I especially enjoyed the assessment of and hands-on work with impact ventures, and the high level of motivation and drive of the whole team. I am looking forward to taking on more responsibility as we continue to grow.”
We wish them all great success in their new roles, and look forward to embracing the opportunities for growth and development that 2021 will bring for the entire Persistent team.
Co-Founder of Persistent Dirk Muench will continue to support the team as a part-time Strategic Advisor in 2021, primarily focusing on the Energy Entrepreneurs Growth Fund (EEGF) and supporting fundraising efforts. He will also remain on the Board of Persistent.
As he takes a step back from leading Persistent, Dirks says that “Building Persistent and exploring how to build successful impact ventures in a commercial model was an amazing opportunity. Stepping back isn’t easy for me – I still believe in the potential to build valuable impact ventures in Africa and I still think it is one of those rare opportunities to combine profit and meaning at work. But I am convinced that I am handing over to a fantastic team that will take Persistent with new energy to the next level.”