28 Jan 2025
We are delighted to have appointed a new head of emerging markets amid ICON’s continued international expansion.
Edward Burbidge joins the ICON team following 14 years as Founder & CEO at I&M Burbidge Capital, the Nairobi-based corporate finance advisory firm which provides M&A and fundraising services across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Edward started his career in London in Equity Capital Markets (ECM) before moving to Nairobi in 2010 to found Burbidge Capital. In 2016 Edward sold a 65% stake to I&M Group, the leading East African Banking Group, and together grew the I&M Burbidge Capital business to become one of the most active investment banking firms in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Edward has led over 50 successful investment banking mandates in Africa, primarily capital raising & M&A. He has also played a key role in market development in Africa as well as in the early stages of capital flows from India to Africa. In recent years a lot of Edward’s focus has been on climate and social impact deals.
At ICON, Edward will lead the company’s strategic efforts in advising growing AfriTech and IndiaTech businesses on M&A and fundraising initiatives.
The African tech market has for some years been a key area of interest for ICON, including in collaboration with I&M Burbidge Capital, with the company having advised a number of AfriTech businesses on their successful and ongoing transactions.
Commenting on the appointment, ICON CEO and Founder, Alan Bristow says: "We are thrilled to welcome Edward to the ICON team. His extensive AfriTech experience and deep understanding of emerging markets make him an invaluable addition as we continue to expand our international reach.
“Edward’s proven track record and passion for supporting growing businesses align perfectly with ICON's mission to drive transformative deals globally. We look forward to the impact he will have in leading our efforts across Africa and India."
ICON Head of Emerging Markets, Edward Burbidge, said: “I am delighted to join ICON Corporate Finance at such an exciting time in its growth journey. ICON’s reputation for delivering exceptional outcomes for innovative businesses in the technology sector is outstanding, and I am so excited about having more impact in the role that technology deals are playing in exponentially increasing social and economic development across Africa and the emerging markets.
“These regions are brimming with opportunities, and I’m looking forward to helping entrepreneurs and institutions achieve their ambitions through strategic advice and impactful deals.”