Mariam Akanbi is General Counsel at ARCH Emerging Markets Partners Limited (ARCH).  ARCH is an owner-managed investment advisory firm founded in 2018 that specialises in private equity and alternative investment opportunities across EM jurisdictions.  At ARCH, Mariam is responsible for all ARCH group legal matters, including advising on fund formation; fundraising; and fund operational matters. Mariam additionally assists with investment considerations; transaction management; and transaction implementation. Mariam is the secretary to ARCH’s investment advisory committees and manages the ARCH group company secretarial function.

Mariam trained in private practice as an investment funds lawyer. Throughout her career Mariam has had a particular interest (and acted for clients) in emerging markets, responsible and impact investments.  Mariam has also acted for a number of first-time fund managers.

Beyond her professional role, Mariam is an active participant in programmes with a focus on social and economic development as well as promoting the power of networking. Mariam co-founded the organisation Black Women in Asset Management (BWAM), a non-profit and has been involved in various community, social mobility and DEI initiatives.  Mariam has acted as a mentor in various capacities including for those beginning their legal careers.