Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings talks with James Mackey, the Managing Director of Climate Investment. They discuss the advantages of a focused investment strategy for boosting deal flow and addressing the climate crisis. James highlights the importance of precise investment criteria in attracting impactful projects, especially in hard-to-abate sectors like heavy industry and transportation. He stresses the need for realistic assessments and data-driven decisions to scale investments effectively. The conversation offers key insights for investors aiming to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability through disciplined investment approaches.

Breakdown:

[00:00] James Mackey discusses deal flow and the selective nature of investments under Climate Investment's focused mandate.
[00:17] Highlighting how specific criteria and investment goals can increase deal flow, contrary to the belief it might limit opportunities.
[00:43] Shifting to the role of private equity and venture capital in addressing climate change through strategic investments in critical sectors.
[01:13] Introduction to James Mackey and his role at Climate Investment
[02:12] Mackey outlines his background and Climate Investment's mission for strategic decarbonization investments.
[03:07] Detailing Climate Investment's focus on sectors with high carbon footprints and the challenges in attracting necessary capital.
[04:07] Emphasizing the scale of impact and the targeted carbon reduction goals of their investments.
[05:05] Discussing the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative's evolution and its broader mission beyond the oil and gas sector.
[06:02] Exploring the engagement model with LPs and the success of pilot programs and commercial orders for portfolio companies.
[06:54] Addressing common mistakes in underestimating execution challenges and the importance of realistic goals.
[08:19] The necessity of data-driven approaches and asking critical questions to evaluate investment potential.
[09:18] Highlighting the importance of being data-driven in understanding the potential for disruption.
[12:08] The challenges in finding investments with significant carbon impact and the stringent selection criteria.
[14:33] Example of evaluating a plastics recycling business and its difficulty in meeting carbon impact requirements.
[16:28] Discussing Climate Investment's strict investment model, driven by clear focus and robust deal flow.
[19:24] On the current capital flow towards climate improvement and the need for more targeted investment in neglected sectors.
[22:20] Highlighting the mismatch between capital flow and emission sources, stressing the need for catalytic capital in emerging sectors.
[25:13] Discussing investment horizons, compensation models, and incentives for directing capital towards impactful solutions.
[26:11] Mackey shares his approach to staying informed through diverse news sources and listening to inspirational podcasts.
[28:04] Providing contact information for James Mackey for investment proposals or inquiries.

You can connect with James Mackey on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page.

Thank you for tuning in!

To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.

Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings chats with Reuben Munger of Vision Ridge Partners about the intersection of Private Equity and sustainable investments, focusing on the electric transportation revolution. Munger, a pioneer in sustainable real assets, shares insights into transitioning from hedge funds to Private Equity with a sustainability lens, and the impact of electric vehicles and infrastructure on the environment and investment returns. Dive into this engaging discussion on how Vision Ridge Partners is leading the charge in sustainable investments, shaping a greener future through strategic, impactful projects.

Breakdown:

[00:00] Definition and focus on Vision Ridge Partners’ approach to investing in sustainable real assets.
[00:15] Discussion on building and owning charging systems, operating electric fleets, and the firm's role in sustainable investing.
[00:43] Insight into the focus on vehicle electrification, niche specialization in private equity, and the broad appeal of narrowing focus.
[01:09] Munger shares his journey from the hedge fund industry to private equity focusing on sustainability, managing over $3 billion across various sectors.
[01:39] Munger discusses the motivation behind the shift and the value of active ownership and sector-specific knowledge in private equity.
[03:02] Discussion on the need for infrastructure and real assets to become more sustainable, focusing on efficiency and lower resource intensity.
[04:29] Vision Ridge’s approach to investing in assets with a sustainable edge and the transition from "gray to green."
[06:40] How sustainability shapes Vision Ridge's investment strategy and decision-making process.
[07:39] Differences in sustainability mindsets between Europe and North America and how it affects investment strategies.
[10:05] Discussing unexpected opportunities and challenges in portfolio companies, emphasizing agility and innovation.
[11:55] How Vision Ridge’s focused approach has benefited the firm in terms of differentiation, expertise, and deal flow.
[16:18] Discussion on electrification in the transportation sector, including commercial vehicles and the impact on sustainability.
[21:38] Alex Rawlings mentions Raw Selection's role in private equity executive search and salary surveys.
[22:08] Insights into the transition towards electric ferries and the challenges of electrifying longer maritime routes.
[23:59] Exploration of competition and collaboration in the electrification of commercial vehicles.
[25:55] Munger shares his recommendations for podcasts, books, and resources that inspire him in the field of sustainable investing.
[28:51] Closing remarks and how to contact Reuben Munger for further discussion on sustainable real assets and electrification.

You can connect with Reuben Munger on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page.

Thank you for tuning in!

To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.

Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.

Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the world of ESG in infrastructure investment with Gwen Colin, ESG Director at Vauban Infrastructure Partners. Gwen shares insights on the differences between ESG practices in the US and Europe, the challenges of implementing ESG strategies, and the impact of long-term investment on sustainable growth. Discover actionable ESG strategies, learn from Gwen's journey, and explore how to integrate sustainability into your investment approach. Join us for a deep dive into making ESG a pivotal part of your business strategy.

Breakdown:

[00:00] Introduction to Gwen Colin and the focus on ESG within infrastructure across the US and Europe.

[01:04] Gwen shares her background, emphasizing her shift from legal advisor to leading ESG initiatives.

[02:04] Discussion on common ESG implementation mistakes and the importance of a long-term perspective in asset management.

[04:24] Insights into the governance differences between the US and Europe in ESG practices.

[08:39] The rationale behind Vauban's long-term investment strategy and its impact on ESG.

[14:24] Successful ESG strategies in portfolio companies, focusing on decarbonization and community impact.

[19:58] Gwen's personal influences, recommending "What We Owe Each Other" by Minouche Shafik for broader learning.

[22:21] Closing thoughts on the importance of ESG in infrastructure and a thank you to listeners for their continued support.


You can connect with Gwen Colin on LinkedIn by visiting her LinkedIn Page.

Thank you for tuning in!

To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.

Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.