H.I.G. Capital, a global alternative investment firm with over $50 billion of equity capital under management, hired Kim Leinwand Erle as managing director and global head of ESG, a newly created role that reflects H.I.G.’s ongoing commitment to the integration of environmental, social and governance best practices across the firm.

Erle joins H.I.G. from NY Green Bank, a specialty finance company, supporting sustainable investments in the clean energy markets. Erle was a managing director and head of strategy and impact, at NY Green Bank, where she was responsible for ESG business strategy formulation and execution. Additionally, Erle was a member of New York State Energy Research & Development Authority’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategic Planning Committee. She has more than 25 years of experience working in financial services and sustainability industries.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kim to the team. Her expertise in sustainability will enhance the firm’s ESG focus across the firm and our portfolio companies, allowing H.I.G. to make a positive impact while creating long-term value for our stakeholders,” Rick Rosen, co-president of H.I.G., said.

“H.I.G.’s establishment of a standalone ESG function is an important milestone for the firm,” Jordan Peer Griffin, executive managing director of H.I.G., said. “Kim brings a wealth of experience to H.I.G. and we are excited for her to lead this important function.”

“H.I.G. has a long and successful track record investing across the alternatives landscape,” Erle said. “I am delighted to join the H.I.G. team and help the firm further drive measurable value for its investors through ESG-related initiatives.”