Invest Africa US has appointed Shannon Stroud as its new Chief Executive Officer. Based in Washington, D.C., Stroud will oversee the organization’s U.S. strategy and growth, with a focus on strengthening partnerships, raising Invest Africa’s profile, and deepening investor engagement with opportunities across Africa and the United States.

Invest Africa is a global platform with offices in the United Kingdom, the United States, the Middle East, and Africa.

Stroud brings more than two decades of leadership experience in international finance, investment, and advisory services. She previously served as Director of Milken Institute International, where she founded and led the Africa Leaders Business Council and spearheaded high-level dialogues at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit and UN General Assembly.

Her earlier roles include Managing Director at the Emerging Markets Private Equity Association (EMPEA), where she developed investor education programs and convened global capital providers through flagship events. She has also held senior positions in private equity, structured finance, and consulting at Pine Creek Partners, CapitalSource Finance, and Arthur Andersen LLP. In addition, she founded Finley Advisory, LLC, advising funds, family offices, and impact investors on capital introductions and fundraising strategies.

Karen Taylor, Executive Chair of Invest Africa, said the appointment reflects the organization’s strategy to expand its U.S. presence.
“Invest Africa is dedicated to building bridges for global investors with the wide range of opportunities that exist on the African continent,” she said.

“Strengthening our presence in the United States is an essential part of our strategy, enabling us to align capital, ideas, and partnerships from around the world.”

Paul Hinks, Chairman of Invest Africa US, welcomed the appointment, citing Stroud’s experience.

“Having worked with Shannon during her time at the Milken Institute, I am delighted to welcome her as our CEO in the U.S.,” he said. “With Shannon’s experience, Invest Africa is uniquely positioned to channel U.S. capital into high-impact investments across Africa, while also supporting African entities seeking to understand the U.S. market.”

Stroud said she was looking forward to advancing U.S.-Africa engagement.

“I look forward to deepening our relationships with investors, policymakers, and business leaders across the United States and the African continent, and to translating those connections into actionable partnerships,” she said.