Dave Kirkpatrick
About Dave Kirkpatrick
Dave Kirkpatrick is a Director and Adjunct Associate Professor of Business at Columbia Business School, with extensive experience in socially responsible and impact investing. He co-founded SJF Ventures and has held various leadership roles in companies focused on cleantech and renewable energy.
Current Role at Living Earth
Dave Kirkpatrick serves as Director at Living Earth - Mulch, Compost, Soils since 2020. His role involves overseeing operations and strategic initiatives within the organization, which focuses on sustainable landscaping solutions. He is based in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area.
Professional Background
Kirkpatrick has extensive experience in the renewable energy and cleantech sectors. He previously held the position of Director at NEXTracker, Inc. from 2014 to 2015 and spent 11 years as Director at Community Energy from 2010 to 2021. His career also includes roles at Ambient Fuels, LLC and Terabase Energy, both of which he joined in 2020.
Education and Expertise
Dave Kirkpatrick earned his MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, studying from 1989 to 1991. He also holds a BA in Physics and History from Duke University, obtained between 1978 and 1982. His expertise lies in socially responsible investing and impact investing, focusing on mission-driven enterprises.
Achievements in Investment and Entrepreneurship
Kirkpatrick co-founded SJF Ventures, a positive impact growth equity fund, which has invested in over 80 companies across various sectors. He has served as Managing Director at SJF Ventures since 1998, contributing to the fund's expansion into major cities including Durham, New York City, Seattle, and San Francisco.
Teaching and Academic Involvement
Since 2022, Kirkpatrick has been an Adjunct Associate Professor of Business at Columbia Business School. In this role, he shares his knowledge and experience in business and investment with students, contributing to their understanding of socially responsible and impact investing.