Head of Investments

Head of Investments - Animal Health & Wellness / Veterinary The Aicila Group - Executive Search – Sydney NSW Full time We are representing a prominent investment arm of significant leader in the pet care industry. Focused on Australia's companion animal health sector, our client partners with innovative businesses and visionary founders to redefine the future of pet wellness. Their mission is to foster a healthier, happier world for pets and their families by investing in the next generation of leading veterinary and animal health businesses. The Opportunity Our client is seeking a commercially astute and strategically minded leader to join them as their Head of Investments. This is a unique opportunity to lead their investment strategy, manage a growing portfolio of emerging businesses, and drive expansion in the thriving pet health market. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in identifying, evaluating, and executing new investments, with a particular focus on veterinary practices and adjacent animal health ventures. This role offers significant autonomy and the chance to make a tangible impact on the industry. What You'll Do As the Head of Investments, you will be responsible for the full investment lifecycle. Your key responsibilities will include: Monitor and report on the financial, operational, and strategic performance of existing portfolio companies. Maintain clear visibility over key risks, opportunities, and governance milestones. Prepare and deliver insightful updates for the CSO, CEO, and the board. 2. Strategic & Operational Support to Portfolio Businesses: Act as a trusted partner to founders and veterinary professionals, providing targeted support in areas like business planning, performance improvement, and commercial strategy. Build strong relationships, providing value while respecting clinical leadership and autonomy. Identify and activate synergies between the portfolio and the parent insurance group, including customer propositions, data collaboration, and commercial partnerships. Act as a key connector, leveraging the broader group's capabilities and resources to support portfolio growth. 3. Origination & Execution of New Investments: Proactively identify and evaluate new investment opportunities across the companion animal health landscape. Lead commercial due diligence, complex valuation analysis, and deal structuring in partnership with legal and finance teams. Develop compelling investment cases and clear post-investment value creation plans to ensure long-term success. Who We're Looking For A seasoned investment professional with a proven track record in corporate development, venture capital, private equity, or a similar field. A strategic thinker with exceptional commercial acumen and strong financial modelling, valuation, and due diligence skills. An outstanding relationship builder, capable of engaging and influencing founders, executives, and clinical professionals. A natural leader with excellent communication and presentation skills, comfortable reporting to executive leadership and board-level stakeholders. A passion for the companion animal sector is highly desirable; direct experience in veterinary or pet health industries is preferred. Why Join? Lead the Charge: Take a leading role in a high-growth, purpose-driven sector. Make an Impact: Directly influence the success of innovative companies and contribute to the wellbeing of pets across Australia. Growth & Autonomy: Enjoy a high degree of autonomy, backed by the resources and stability of a major corporate partner. Competitive Package: Receive a competitive salary package, including performance-based incentives. If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding leadership role, we would love to hear from you. How to Apply Please submit your CV by following the links or go directly to to apply online. Your application will be treated in the strictest confidence. The role is open to those who have full working rights in Australia, no visa sponsorships are on offer. #J-18808-Ljbffr