ToughStuff is recruiting for a Madagascar-based role

ToughStuff is an award-winning social enterprise that designs and distributes solar products for sale in developing countries. Although its vision is socially motivated, its practice is enterprise focused, and it is backed by private investors and a government DFI. ToughStuff is at the forefront of a new generation of "triple-bottom-line" businesses that target social, environmental and economic benefits for its consumers, whilst seeking a return to shareholders.

ToughStuff is seeking a leader to provide overall business management of its Madagascar operation, with a specific emphasis on overseeing the sales channel performance. Initially on an interim basis starting in early July for 3 months, the role has the potential to extend. This might suit an entrepreneurial person with creativity, drive and willingness to take balanced risks. Candidates will probably have around 10 years professional experience with some experience of people management and in marketing, sales and building distribution. Experience of working in Africa is helpful. Fluent spoken and written Engish and good French is also required, as is early availability and a huge passion for the goals and objectives of ToughStuff.

For more details on the role and how to apply, please contact Roger Hattam: roger.hattam@toughstuffonline.com.

ESG investing - what else is going on out there?

Every now and again I am reminded the the social enterprise world is not the only movement looking for ways of combining social and environmental achievements with commercial goals. CSR (or CR or sustainability as it is now more often known as) and social intrapreneurship are examples of related movements that have realted aspirations. Social finance or impact investing is also increasingly gaining in prominence.

Further back in the public's consciousness lies the land of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Investing. It is populated by asset managers, bankers, private equity investors and pension funds, who wield influence behind the scenes, through the often substantial sums they can invest (or not). Whilst many of these investments still happen with a need for (near) commercial returns, ESG considerations are making more and more of a mark.

This November, London will be the backdrop for the TBLI Conference, a major annual conference in this field. Encouragingly, the conference includes a session on social entrepreneurs and social investing and On Purpose plans to be a part of it.

These different movements, which are all working to achieve social and environmental outcomes through commercial means, will need to come together more and more if serious system-level change is to happen.

Tom