With relentless curiosity, a  passion for seeing New Zealand tech companies succeed globally and ability to quickly adapt to continually changing business priorities, meet Jonathan…  

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Why venture capital? 

“Being able to work with startups who turn ideas into successful businesses is hugely inspiring. Venture capital is an integral part of that journey and process; and I really like the idea of being part of a team of key enablers.”

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More importantly, why GD1?

“I was sold on GD1 before we even had a chat! I had watched one of their analysts speak on a panel at an industry event and it was their mission that stood out. It’s gutsy to only invest in those who set out to succeed globally! Both the firm’s Managing Partners and Operators took time to explain industry concepts to me during the hiring process. At that stage, they weren’t obliged to go ‘above and beyond’ yet they did. It was clear to me that nurturing and growing their people as well as their portfolio companies was a key priority.” 

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What do you do at GD1, 9-5?

“I analyse potential portfolio companies with the goal of finding companies that match our investment mandate. This includes everything from their product, go-to-market strategy and expansion plans, to the competitive landscape, product and pricing strategy. This pre-screening and due diligence often includes interrogating data sets and joining the dots so that GD1’s Investment Committee has a more complete picture of each potential portfolio company. I’m also deeply entrenched in fund reports. Outside of this ‘desk work’, I also actively network within the ecosystem and meet with founders to support deal flow. Due to the huge variety in the tech ecosystem, no two companies or days are the same.”

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What makes a good Investment Analyst?

“Curiosity! Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I come into every meeting like a sponge; taking in everything and learning as much as possible. The tech ecosystem is…well, technical! Meeting people and asking questions is how you grow your network and knowledge!” 

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What’s your superpower?

“It’s definitely my ability to be adaptable. Coming from a professional services environment meant I had to adapt to client requests ‘on the fly’. This applies perfectly to my role in VC where I am required to be across multiple metrics and industries; learning and formulating opinions quickly.”

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What gets you up in the morning?

“Besides the gym - because health is important - I’m always excited to learn something new. At the end of the day, if I feel I have learnt something, I see the day as rewarding and fulfilling.”

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If you won the lotto, what would you do? 

“Having worked in finance - my answer is probably more measured than some. I would split it up - I’d invest in real estate and stocks; and use some to travel. I would love to go skiing in Japan and Canada; and take a boy’s trip to Queenstown to play some good golf. I’d also use some to open a business - probably a food truck that serves Thai bbq!” 

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What would you say to someone wanting a career in venture capital? 

“Whilst my background is finance, professional services and the implementation of big tech projects was a good segue into VC; the industry needs a diverse spread of skills - particularly when it comes to supporting its portfolio companies. My best advice is to get out there; talk to people and find out how you can get involved…you might just never look back!” 

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