Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Ahmad Merhi is an experienced Investment Portfolio Manager specializing in Private Markets at the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). With a strong background in investment strategy, portfolio management, and the private sector, he brings a wealth of expertise to his current role. Merhi's industry focus spans private equity, venture capital, and alternative asset classes, where he leverages his analytical acumen and strategic insights to drive performance and create value for his clients.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Investment Portfolio Manager - Funds (Private Markets) at the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Merhi is responsible for managing a diverse portfolio of private market investments, including private equity, venture capital, and real estate funds. He leverages his deep understanding of the global private markets landscape to identify and evaluate attractive investment opportunities, construct well-diversified portfolios, and actively monitor and manage the performance of the fund investments. Merhi's contributions have played a crucial role in expanding IsDB's private markets exposure and delivering consistent risk-adjusted returns for the organization.

Career Progression

Prior to his current role, Merhi held various leadership positions in the investment and finance industry. As the Principal of Investment Strategy at the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), he was instrumental in shaping the organization's investment approach and driving strategic initiatives to enhance its private sector focus. He also served as a Portfolio Manager at the Al Muhaidib Group, where he managed a diverse portfolio of alternative assets and contributed to the firm's overall investment strategy.

Earlier in his career, Merhi gained valuable experience as an Investment Analyst at Cenomi Group, where he specialized in asset management and investment analysis for the Arabian Centres portfolio. He also held an Investment Banking Associate role at Aldukheil Financial Group (AFG), where he participated in various corporate finance transactions and advisory services.

Academic Background

Merhi holds a Master's degree in Finance from a prestigious university, where he graduated with distinction. He also possesses a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in Finance, further strengthening his academic foundation in the field of investment management.

Areas of Expertise

• Private Markets Investing: Profound knowledge of private equity, venture capital, and alternative asset classes

• Investment Strategy and Portfolio Management: Expertise in constructing and optimizing diversified investment portfolios to deliver consistent risk-adjusted returns

• Financial Analysis and Due Diligence: Adept at conducting in-depth financial analysis, evaluating investment opportunities, and performing rigorous due diligence

• Risk Management: Proficient in identifying, assessing, and mitigating investment risks to protect client assets

• Leadership and Collaboration: Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, foster stakeholder relationships, and contribute to organizational objectives

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Merhi has successfully executed several high-profile investment initiatives, including the expansion of ICD's private markets exposure and the optimization of AlMuhaidib Group's alternative asset portfolio. His analytical expertise, strategic decision-making, and commitment to delivering exceptional results have earned him a reputation as a trusted and influential investment professional within the industry.

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, strong academic background, and demonstrated expertise in private markets investing, Ahmad Merhi is a valuable asset to the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). In his current role, he continues to drive growth, enhance performance, and contribute to the organization's overall success in the global private markets landscape.