WASHINGTON, D.C. — September 20, 2025 — Invest Africa has announced the appointment of Shannon Stroud as the new Chief Executive Officer of its U.S. branch. Based in Washington, D.C., Stroud will spearhead the organization’s strategy and growth in the United States, enhancing Invest Africa’s visibility and fostering deeper relationships with investors interested in the continent’s opportunities.
With over 20 years of leadership experience in international finance, investment, and advisory services, Stroud joins Invest Africa from the Milken Institute, where she directed the Africa Leaders Business Council. In this role, she led high-level discussions in conjunction with the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit and the UN General Assembly, while expanding partnerships with global investors.
Prior to her time at the Milken Institute, Stroud was Managing Director at the Emerging Markets Private Equity Association (EMPEA), where she created investor education programs and organized major conferences for capital providers. Her extensive background also includes senior positions in private equity, structured finance, and consulting at firms such as Pine Creek Partners, CapitalSource Finance, and Arthur Andersen LLP. Additionally, she founded Finley Advisory, LLC, which specialized in advising funds, family offices, and impact investors on capital introductions and fundraising strategies.
Karen Taylor, Executive Chair of Invest Africa, emphasized the importance of Stroud’s role, stating, “Invest Africa is committed to connecting global investors with the vast opportunities available across Africa. Strengthening our U.S. presence is a crucial aspect of our strategy, allowing us to align capital and ideas worldwide. This appointment reinforces our position as the leading platform for directing international investment into Africa.”
Paul Hinks, Chairman of Invest Africa in the U.S., expressed his enthusiasm for Stroud’s leadership: “Having collaborated with Shannon at the Milken Institute, I am thrilled to welcome her as our CEO. The U.S. is a vital partner for Africa’s growth, and Invest Africa is distinguished by our ability to equip American investors with the expertise and network necessary to navigate complex markets. With Shannon’s experience, we are well-positioned to channel U.S. capital into impactful investments across Africa.”
Stroud herself remarked on the significance of her new role: “I am excited to join Invest Africa at such a crucial moment for U.S.-Africa relations. I look forward to strengthening connections with investors, policymakers, and business leaders in both the U.S. and Africa, translating these relationships into actionable partnerships. Together with our global colleagues, we will ensure that Invest Africa remains the trusted platform where U.S. and African investors can cultivate meaningful opportunities and drive impact.”
Invest Africa serves as a premier pan-African business and investment platform, driving trade and investment across the continent. With over 60 years of experience, it offers its network trusted market insights, tailored business support, and avenues for impactful engagement. The organization unites more than 400 multinational corporations, investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, all dedicated to building sustainable opportunities in Africa.
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