VC Director @ Energize Capital in Chicago, IL

Energize Capital is a leading multi‑stage investor in climate solutions. Founded in 2016 and based in Chicago, to date Energize has funded 30+ companies and deployed more than $750 million through its venture capital and endurance strategies. The firm manages more than $1.6 billion in assets and is backed by institutional, strategic and impact LPs including Invenergy, CDPQ, GE Vernova, Caterpillar and more.

Position Overview
Become a part of the Energize Capital team to contribute to our purpose of investing in leading climate solutions companies to generate top‑tier returns and enable sustainable innovation at scale. We are a close‑knit team with an entrepreneurial spirit, and this role requires flexibility, a diverse skill set, and an ability to perform at a high level on multiple fronts. We are looking for a driven, hardworking, and experienced professional to support and elevate our firm operations.

The Director of Operations will report to Energize’s Partner/COO. This individual will be primarily responsible for developing and executing Energize’s operations strategy.

The Director of Operations is a key leadership role responsible for the overall management and execution of all operational functions within the firm. This includes overseeing operational processes, working closely with internal teams and external vendors, and implementing strategies to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and support the firm’s growth objectives. Energize Capital is a newly registered investment advisor.

This is a full‑time position located in Chicago.

Responsibilities

Operational Leadership:

Manage and implement operational strategies and policies to support the firm’s business objectives.

Ensure the efficient and effective execution of all operational processes, including office management, new office buildout, IT, employee manual, contracts and vendors, compliance support, insurance and team offsites.

Maintain high‑quality internal communications for upcoming projects and events that impact the team.

Policy Management:

Maintain a robust policy framework, ensuring adherence to all relevant regulations and internal policies.

Identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks, developing and implementing risk management procedures.

With the compliance team, oversee the implementation and maintenance of internal controls to prevent errors and mitigate risk.

Technology and Systems:

Manage relationships with key vendors and service providers, including third‑party technology providers.

Evaluate and implement new technologies and systems to improve operational efficiency.

Financial Management:

Manage the operations budget, ensuring efficient resource allocation and cost control.

Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify areas for improvement.

Stakeholder Management:

Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, including investment, portfolio services, and operations teams.

Compliance:

Support the training, certifications, and documenting of compliance program, working with third‑party compliance provider.

Project Management:

Manage operational projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

Qualifications

Current resident of or willing to relocate to Chicago for the position

Bachelor’s degree

7‑10 years of operational experience at an investment firm preferred

Strong analytical skills and the ability and willingness to navigate, interpret and apply the rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC

Detail‑oriented with a track record of consistently producing high‑quality work

Proactive and determined, with a strong work ethic

Knowledge of federal, state and industry regulations applicable to firm

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ability to collaborate effectively

Project management, technological and prioritization skills

Strong problem‑solving skills

Benefits

Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and HSA from day one of employment

401(k) matching

Generous paid time off in addition to 10 company holidays and a flexible winter holiday schedule

Market‑leading parental leave policy and family planning benefits

Health club reimbursement

Continuing education stipend

Option to work remote Fridays

Lunch provided on in‑office days

Energize Capital embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills.

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