Managing Partner, The Yard Ventures Alumni Ventures
Austin, TX, United States
We are currently underway building a second and independent investment fund and team for Harvard alumni and friends. As such, we are seeking a founding Managing Partner who will contribute in both venture capital investing (sourcing, recruiting, researching, and evaluating deals) and building our community (fundraising, community engagement, and relationship development). This individual will serve as the leader of the Fund’s investing work and will oversee the creation of a unique portfolio amassing highly valuable strategic assets.
The successful Managing Partner at The Yard Ventures will drive enhanced deal quality and improve co-investing opportunities for AV Funds and investors. As Managing Partner of the Fund, this individual will report to AV’s Investment Teams Board. This is a full-time position based in our new Bay Area office with some travel required for the successful execution of responsibilities.
Profile Requirements
MBA graduate or advanced degree preferred
10+ years of experience and a strong track record in professional venture investing
Significant experience in an executive/leadership role
Significant investing experience across various sectors and stages
Alumnus or professional alumnus of the Harvard community strongly preferred
Entrepreneurial DNA; broad operating background a plus
Demonstrated experience in implementing and executing standardized business processes
Comfortable and enthusiastic supporter of AV’s unique model and investing playbook
Desired Traits
Significant venture network. Ready and able to engage a network of venture and startup professionals who can provide you and The Yard Ventures access to a high number of exceptional investing opportunities
Strong network within the Harvard community and university ecosystem
Demonstrated interest in emerging technologies and innovation, as evidenced by a professional track record of meaningful involvement in the startup space and personal involvement with opportunities around cutting-edge technology
Experience advising, consulting, and valuing emerging companies and/or new technologies
Track record of investing including significant venture deals sourced from a personal, professional network of venture and startup connections
Proven ability to build rapport with entrepreneurs, management teams, boards of directors, venture capitalists, alumni, and other contributors to the venture ecosystem
Domain expertise in one or more tech/startup sectors
Strong fundraising skills and ability to excel in all aspects of holding meetings, taking calls, follow-up, and closing
Track record of being able to build meaningful relationships with UHNW and HNW individuals
Strong deal sheet
Responsibilities
Meet and exceed regular, periodic goals as established by HQ and all appropriate functional departments (i.e., Community, Office of Investments, etc.).
Establish, manage, and grow personal relationships with fellow alumni throughout the venture community and well beyond
Identify top-tier deal resources and conduct outreach to VCs, entrepreneurs, incubators, and more to help cement deal flow for the fund
Educate deal sources and companies/entrepreneurs about our process and effectively manage relationships in a professional, courteous manner
Research and evaluate each company and industry as a potential investment, including company teams, competitors, and customers
Help oversee and manage due diligence
Manage The Yard Ventures team with active coaching and mentoring
Work directly with the fund’s team to develop an investment pipeline and portfolio manage existing investments
Present companies to Investment Committee and respond to Investment Committee, CIO, and investor questions
Lead and close conversations and meetings with fund investors
Serve as the primary face of the fund, helping drive community growth, strength, and effectiveness
Serve as an ambassador of AV, representing the company’s mission, goals, and brand
Work directly with the AV portfolio companies to develop a strong relationship to facilitate future investments, aggressively pursue promising follow-on opportunities, monitor progress, facilitate Portfolio Services
Lead investor relations and potential investor outreach
Engage with and support our Fellows, provide mentorship and leverage their time to support fund activities
Help supervise back-end functions as needed
Suggest improvements to our approach, process, products, and services
Be an exceptional teammate and partner for the fund, your sister funds, and fellow colleagues
Adhere to AV policies and procedures regarding conduct, job performance, information management and administrative functions, communicating appropriately regarding any need for exceptions
Adhere to AV standards and processes for deal evaluation and portfolio management and construction
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