Patrick Elmer
Patrick works at the intersection of finance and global development, focusing on innovative solutions and partnerships that create opportunities for underprivileged people and protect our planet. He founded iGravity in March 2017 to support disruptive ideas, entrepreneurs, visionaries, and institutions in their impact investment [ad]ventures. Previously he worked as Head of Business Development at BlueOrchard, leading the sales strategy across multiple markets and developing new partnerships and structures. He was also Head of Philanthropy Services and Responsible Investments at Credit Suisse, advising clients on investment solutions and leading the bank’s efforts in creating novel partnerships and products in areas like microfinance, education, agriculture and conservation finance. Before that, Patrick worked for many years in Mozambique, Tanzania and Madagascar, first managing the private sector development portfolio of SECO (Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs) and later establishing and managing microfinance banks on behalf of public and private investors. Earlier professional experiences focused on consulting and financing of start-up companies.
Patrick holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs from the University of St. Gallen and a Master’s degree on Developing Countries from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich.