S13E16: Turning a Private Equity fund into an impact investment firm, with Kevin Chin (CEO, Arowana)
September 21, 2023
"Having a broader purpose has led to better investment returns."
We're continuing our season on "business as a force for good", Richard speaks with Kevin Chin, CEO of Arowana. After 10 years as a finance-first Private Equity business, Kevin transformed it into one of the world's highest-ranking B Corps and impact investment groups in less than 5 years.
Prior to Arowana, Kevin took over and saved a software company with 6 weeks of cash left and transitioned it to a global leader within 4 years, culminating in it being acquired by Oracle.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- What the biggest learning in transitioning to a B-Corp was
- Where the biggest resistance came from
- How Arowana is planning to multiply its impact across future generations.
- The specific strategy Kevin uses to remain mentally agile, despite his experience and success.
Resources/sources mentioned:
- Arowana (Arowanaco.com)
- Hyper-turnaround book (https://www.amazon.com/HyperTurnaround-Transforming-Company-Collapse-Global-ebook/dp/B07MDPR7CN/)
- The Impact Multiplier CEO Podcast (https://xquadrant.com/podcast/)
- Join Rivendell, the exclusive group of top CEOs dedicated to transforming themselves, their businesses, and the world. Visit https://xquadrant.com/services/ceo-mastermind/ to learn more and take your leadership to the next level.
- Ready for a big leap forward in your own leadership? Elevate your leadership forever with the book Making time for Strategy: How to be less busy and more successful. Buy your book here: https://xquadrant.com/time/
- For full show notes, head to https://xquadrant.com/kevin-chin
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
06:17 Measurement tools used in B Corps for accountability
13:30 How to make an Impact with your growth and overcome resistance from corporations
17:11 Targeting emerging markets for positive change
20:34 Finding fulfillment in building sustainable electric vehicles.