Recorded Interview With Matshepo Modise, CEO
Matshepo Modise, CEO of Scientia Holdings Property Fund (Pty) Ltd, embodies the perfect balance of what we like to call a step ahead vision, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to transformative fund practices. With a career spanning over 18 years in corporate finance, asset management, and private equity, Matshepo’s journey to leading Scientia is marked by perseverance, and a steadfast focus on delivering value. Reflecting on her early career, she recalls the pivotal moments spent at Nedbank, IMAS Finance, and MFC (a division of Nedbank), where she managed multi-billion-rand portfolios, gaining what she considers invaluable experience in structuring transactions and managing risk. It was during these formative years that Matshepo cultivate her ability to identify high-value opportunities, develop both financial & operational solutions, and lead teams to drive growth. Her tenure in these institutions not only sharpened her technical expertise but also allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the intricacies of the local and international financial markets, positioning her as a trusted authority in the private equity sector.
Matshepo’s leadership at Scientia has been instrumental in establishing the firm as a leading private equity player in the mid-market space, focusing on sustainable and ethical investments. Under her guidance, Scientia has successfully completed more than 10 high-impact transactions. She speaks passionately about her approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of aligning financial returns with broader societal impact. “For us, it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about creating value that resonates beyond the balance sheet,” she says. Her ability to integrate ESG principles into the firm’s strategies has attracted like-minded investors and partners, ensuring that Scientia remains a force for positive change. Matshepo also champions diversity within the organization, believing that diverse teams bring broader perspectives, which are essential for solving complex problems and driving innovation in an increasingly dynamic global economy.
When asked about Scientia’s journey since its founding in 2019, Matshepo highlights the challenges and triumphs of launching a private equity firm during a period of global uncertainty. “Starting Scientia just before the pandemic taught us the value of adaptability and resilience,” she reflects. Despite the headwinds, Scientia was able to identify & capitalize on opportunities, particularly in sectors such as real estate, technology, and healthcare. Matshepo attributes much of the firm’s success to its governance frameworks and disciplined investment philosophy, which emphasize due diligence, risk management, and managing foresight. Her focus on these fundamentals has enabled Scientia to weather economic turbulence while consistently delivering value for its stakeholders. She also credits her leadership team, describing them as “exceptionally talented individuals who share a common vision and bring decades of expertise to the table.”
A cornerstone of Matshepo’s leadership philosophy is her commitment to long-term relationships—with both the businesses Scientia invests in and the investors who back the firm. “We don’t see ourselves as mere capital providers; we see ourselves as partners,” she explains. This approach has been central to Scientia’s strategy of aligning with management teams who are not only looking to grow but also to innovate and create lasting impact in their respective industries. Matshepo believes that true partnership requires trust, transparency, and shared values, which is why Scientia places such a strong emphasis on ESG compliance and ethical business practices. By growing these relationships, Scientia ensures that all stakeholders are aligned toward common goals, resulting in mutually beneficial outcomes.
Matshepo’s career is also marked by her ability to mentor and uplift the next generation of leaders in finance and private equity. She is a firm believer in empowering women and underrepresented groups within the industry, seeing it as a responsibility to pave the way for others. “The private equity space has traditionally been dominated by certain demographics, but that’s changing—and it needs to continue to change,” she says. Under her leadership, Scientia has implemented initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion, not just within the firm but also across its portfolio companies. She often speaks about the importance of creating opportunities for young talent, emphasizing that inclusivity is not just a moral imperative but a business advantage that drives better decision-making.
Looking ahead, Matshepo envisions Scientia evolving into a globally recognized private equity firm that continues to deliver both financial and societal value. She is particularly excited about expanding the firm’s portfolio into new markets and sectors, including renewable energy and advanced technology, which align with global trends and offer growth potential. Matshepo acknowledges that the path forward will come with its challenges but remains confident in Scientia’s ability to adapt and thrive. “We’ve built a foundation based on integrity, resilience, and innovation. As long as we stay true to those principles, the possibilities are endless,” she states. Her leadership has not only solidified Scientia’s reputation in the private equity world but has also set a benchmark for what responsible and impactful investing should look like in the 21st century.