Leonie Baneke is taking on a new leadership role in the European energy technology investment space after joining SET Ventures as Associate Partner, bringing with her years of experience spanning venture investing, corporate innovation and the scaling of fast-growing energy businesses.
SET Ventures Strengthens Leadership Team with New Associate Partner
SET Ventures, a venture capital firm headquartered in Amsterdam, has announced the appointment of Leonie Baneke as its new Associate Partner.
The appointment reflects the firm’s continued focus on backing innovative technology companies that are helping transform Europe’s energy landscape.
In her new position, Baneke will contribute to the firm’s investment strategy while working closely with portfolio companies.
Her responsibilities will include identifying promising energy technology startups and providing practical guidance to founders based on her extensive operational and leadership experience.
Extensive Experience Across Energy, Investment and Business Growth
Before joining SET Ventures, Baneke spent nearly 12 years with Eneco, where she held several senior positions focused on investment, innovation and venture development.
One of her key achievements was establishing Eneco Ventures, the company’s dedicated venture investment division.
She later became Chief Executive Officer of Eneco eMobility, an independent electric vehicle charging business that originated from Eneco.
As CEO, Baneke oversaw a period of significant expansion.
Under her leadership, the company’s workforce increased from approximately 100 employees to 200, while revenue doubled and profitability improved despite operating in an increasingly competitive electric mobility market.
Financial Expertise Complements Operational Leadership
Baneke’s professional background extends beyond the energy sector.
Earlier in her career, she worked in investment banking and mergers and acquisitions, gaining expertise in corporate transactions, financial strategy and investment analysis.
This combination of financial knowledge, venture investing and executive leadership is expected to strengthen SET Ventures’ ability to identify high-potential companies and help them scale successfully.
Board Roles Across Europe’s Clean Energy Industry
In addition to her executive responsibilities, Baneke has served on the boards of several companies operating in the clean energy ecosystem.
These include EV charging software provider Greenflux, virtual power plant operator Next Kraftwerke, and energy-efficient heating specialist Thermondo.
Her board experience has provided exposure to a broad range of technologies supporting Europe’s transition toward a more sustainable and digitally connected energy system.
SET Ventures Continues Backing Energy Innovation
Established in 2007, SET Ventures has built its investment strategy around supporting companies developing technologies that modernize the energy sector.
The firm focuses on businesses creating cleaner heating solutions, advancing electric mobility, improving electricity grid management and introducing digital innovations that challenge traditional energy business models.
Over the years, the venture capital firm has also recorded more than 10 successful portfolio exits, reinforcing its position as an active investor in Europe’s growing energy technology market.
