Director of Alternative Investments

Company Description

Rockwood is a leading South African investment firm focused on industrial businesses that manufacture and distribute high-quality products across multiple sectors. Its portfolio includes well-known brands such as Bravo Sleep, Bravo Lounge, Nouwens Carpets, Global Roofing Solutions, Prominent Paints, and Welfit Oddy. The group employs more than 3,300 people across 30 operating locations in Southern Africa, including South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. Rockwood operates 18 manufacturing facilities supported by a modern logistics fleet of over 330 vehicles, enabling efficient regional distribution. As a proudly South African organization, Rockwood is committed to superior products, exceptional service, sustainable growth, and long-term value creation in the markets it serves. Role Description The Director of Alternative Investments is a full-time, remote position responsible for leading the development and execution of alternative investment strategies across Rockwood’s portfolio. This role oversees sourcing, evaluating, and managing investments in non-traditional asset classes, including private equity, real assets, and other specialized opportunities aligned with the firm’s industrial focus. Day-to-day responsibilities include conducting in-depth financial and market analysis, leading due diligence processes, preparing investment memos and recommendations, and monitoring portfolio performance against risk and return objectives. The Director will collaborate with senior leadership, finance teams, and external partners to structure transactions, optimize capital allocation, and support strategic growth initiatives. The role also involves establishing governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, and providing clear, data-driven insights to stakeholders.

Qualifications

Strong investment management experience, including oversight of alternative investments and portfolio construction. Advanced analytical skills for financial modeling, risk assessment, and performance evaluation. Expertise in developing and implementing investment strategies across diverse asset classes. Deep understanding of finance principles and capital markets, with demonstrated experience in evaluating investments. Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business, or a related field; a graduate degree or professional designation (e.g., CFA, CAIA, MBA) is advantageous. Proven experience in leadership roles, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead cross-functional teams remotely. Strong communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly to non-technical audiences. Experience working with or within industrial, manufacturing, or real asset environments is beneficial. Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities in a remote setting.