Runa Alam

Runa Alam is the co-founder and CEO of Development Partners International (DPI), a leading private equity firm focused on African investments, managing $2 billion across three funds: ADP I, ADP II, and ADP III. DPI is recognized for top-tier financial returns, alongside strong ESG and impact initiatives, including gender balance, climate change, and job creation. ADP III was selected as the first “2X Challenge Gender Balance Showcase Fund” by OECD development institutions. 

With over 35 years of experience in private equity, emerging markets, and investment banking, Runa has invested in Africa for 22 years and serves on numerous African company boards. She has been a key figure in developing private equity in Africa, serving as Chair of the African Private Equity Association (AVCA) and holding leadership roles at EMPEA. Runa is also involved in global development efforts, serving on CARE's board and the World Economic Forum’s Future Challenge Committee on the UN SDGs. She has contributed to education through advisory roles at Princeton and Yale and other pro bono initiatives. Her career began on Wall Street at Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch. 

A development economist, Runa holds degrees from Princeton University and Harvard Business School, and is a Harry S. Truman Congressional Scholar.