Arizona Fund Manager Association Welcomes Benjamin Vega as First Executive Director

Vega to lead AFMA’s initiatives, enhancing Arizona as a burgeoning hub for fund management

The Arizona Fund Manager Association (AFMA), an organization dedicated to advancing Arizona's investment fund industry, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Benjamin Vega as its first Executive Director. Vega, an Arizona native with over 12 years of leadership experience in capital raising for investment firms and nonprofit fundraising, is poised to drive AFMA’s strategic initiatives further, amplifying its impact on the regional and national investment landscapes.

Founded in 2017, the Arizona Fund Manager Association (AFMA) supports a robust network of fund managers across the state, managing approximately $15 billion in assets. Cole Smead, Chairman of AFMA, stated, "Ben stood out for his deep understanding of our mission and his awareness of where Arizona has been and where it is going. We are confident in his ability to take AFMA to new heights, enhancing our support for local funds and teaching other firms about operating in the bon vivant nature of the 48^th state."

Benjamin Vega’s career highlights include key roles at Phoenix Children’s Foundation and a real estate investment firm, demonstrating a profound ability to drive growth and foster strategic relationships.

Vega expressed his enthusiasm about his new role: "I am honored to lead AFMA and advance our mission to foster a thriving investment community in Arizona. I look forward to expanding our signature events like LiftAZ, furthering our initiatives to attract investment fund managers to the state and working with the state legislature to optimize the environment for these firms."

Under Vega’s leadership, AFMA aims to intensify its efforts in organizing key industry events, such as the annual LiftAZ summit, which connects Arizona-based fund managers with prominent investors and voices. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to solidify Arizona’s status as a prime hub for investment funds, including venture capital, private equity, hedge funds and mutual funds.

About Arizona Fund Manager Association (AFMA)

The Arizona Fund Manager Association (AFMA) is a non-profit organization committed to catalyzing the growth of Arizona's investment industry. Founded in 2017, AFMA nurtures the growth of Arizona's investment industry, enhancing the visibility and development of private investment funds, including venture capital, private equity, and hedge funds. AFMA supports a diverse membership that drives economic innovation and growth, with $15 billion in assets under management by its members and an influence over the broader $125 billion held by institutional investors in Arizona. For more information, visit AFMA's official website.

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