Christian Speckhardt has more than 20 years’ experience in the international banking, finance and impact investment industry.

He started his career in 1995 in corporate and investment banking followed by a credit risk role covering multinational corporates at Credit Suisse First Boston. Later, he supported the establishment of the group treasury department and led complex capital market transactions at Zurich Insurance Group. After heading the investor relations department of a listed private equity company he was the group treasurer of the Swiss cable and telecom company Cablecom contributing to the exit through IPO or trade sale, followed by integration into UPC.

Christian decided to enter the impact investment industry in 2006 where he joined the leading Swiss regulated asset manager in impact investments, responsAbility Investments AG. As CIO, member of the executive management and Deputy CEO, responsible for the debt financing activities, risk and portfolio management, he contributed to the successful growth of the company, from USD 80m to over USD 3bn Assets under Management, and the establishment of various investment products for private and public investors. In this role, he gained a deep understanding of the global impact investment and development finance industry, as well as sectorial knowhow in financial sector/microfinance, sustainable agriculture and renewable energy and energy efficiency, with a focus on developing countries and emerging markets.

In 2018, Christian started his own advisory business and launched simpAct Consulting GmbH where he is sharing his rich experience through advisory and board roles. He is contributing to the further development of the impact investment industry and engages in business development of SDG relevant companies and initiatives.

Christian holds a degree in economics and an MBA from the University of Zurich, Switzerland.