KKR's impact business makes senior lateral hire in Asia

KKR Global Impact launched last year with a remit to back companies that can provide measurable benefits to address critical global challenges identified by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It invests in businesses where social impact is intrinsically aligned with financial performance, and where the GP can leverage its global resources to improve performance.

The first investment made under this strategy was in Asia, with Barghest Building Performance, a Singapore-based provider of energy-saving solutions for heating and cooling systems, receiving up to S$45 million ($32.8 million). This was followed by the acquisition of Ramky Enviro Engineers, a previously announced deal that was allotted to the impact strategy.

Yang will focus on sourcing more investments in the region as well as handling portfolio management. She joined KKR in 2009 from J.P. Morgan and has been involved in portfolio, strategy, operating, capital raising and capital markets activities. In her new role, Yang will continue to work closely with the firm's Asia private equity team. 

"Asia Pacific has become a compelling destination for impact investment driven by the structural policy changes and reforms across the region combined with increased public awareness and corporate adoption of environmental, social and governance initiatives," said Ming Lu, head of Asia at KKR, in a statement.

He noted that emerging markets are leading the way as local companies develop products and services to meet sustainable development opportunities resulting from rapid urbanization and a growing middle class.

Yang added: "Growing up in China, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of environmental pollution and climate change. It is an honor and privilege to be able to commit my time and energy to find meaningful solutions for the protection of our future generations – including my own children – and to do so as part of the KKR global team and impact platform."

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