LUZ Capital Partners

Born in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Rafael Higashi Pacheco began his education in a Brazilian public school, overcoming challenges to earn a scholarship to a private institution. This opportunity sparked a passion for learning and a drive for excellence that later led to a degree in Applied Mathematics from the University of São Paulo (USP), the leading university in Latin America.

After graduating, Rafael joined JBS, the world's largest beef and chicken producer, where he began his career in Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP). In this role, he oversaw optimization models, gaining valuable insights into operational efficiency. Recognizing the pivotal role of finance in business success, he transitioned into Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A), which laid the foundation for a career in finance.

Rafael's commitment to broadening his international experience and cultural understanding led him to key finance roles across Asia, including Japan and China. These positions not only expanded his global perspective but also deepened his expertise in diverse markets and enhanced his ability to connect with various communities. Most recently, Rafael served as the CFO of a $300 million U.S.-based company, where he was responsible for financial strategy and operations.

To further strengthen his financial acumen, Rafael earned a Master’s in Accountancy from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and became a licensed CPA in Illinois. With over a decade of global experience in finance and operations, coupled with a profound understanding of different cultures, Rafael is now focused on a new chapter—acquiring and leading a company through LUZ Capital Partners. His strategic vision and dedication are set to drive lasting impact in this next venture.