
When
I joined InterWest, I was 26 years old, the year was 2000 and the bubble was
bursting. Most young people who joined
the venture business at that time did not make it. I am grateful to my partners at InterWest for
mentoring me, providing me with a strong platform and having the patience to help
me build a track record.
In
Shasta, I have found everything I was looking for in the next chapter of my
venture career. While there are many
models for success in venture, I subscribe to the belief that this is not a
scale business. I wanted to join a firm where
all the partners can sit around a small table and make quick and efficient
decisions. And, I wanted a fund size where a single fantastic investment
can return all or most of a fund. Strategically,
I sought to join a firm that is focused solely on Information Technology and that
also has a strong software franchise. Shasta
has a fantastic enterprise software practice with investments like Anaplan, Apptio,
Lithium, Steelbrick, Zenprise, Zuora and many others. And,
Shasta’s strategy to invest in Series A and in early Series B companies
overlaps exactly with my experience. Finally,
and most importantly, I have found a firm with a strong cultural fit, shared
values and a common philosophy that entrepreneurs are the core of our
business. Shasta has built a fantastic reputation
among its entrepreneurs for being a valued and trusted partner.
Today
is also a day of mixed emotions. After
10 years, yesterday was my last as a board member of Marketo. I feel so
fortunate to have been able to invest in Phil Fernandez, Jon Miller and Dave
Morandi when they had an idea to revolutionize digital marketing. I have
learned so much about what it takes to build a category-leading public company
from the founders and the entire team at Marketo. Thank you to Phil, Jon, Dave, Fred, Bill, Steve,
Jason, Sanjay, Nick, Margo, Joan and all of my fellow board members for
allowing me to be a part of Marketo’s fantastic journey these past 10 years!
Venture Capital has been an interest of mine for several years. glad to hear you are finding the entrepreneurs you need as partners! every wish for good fortune.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Doug! Shasta is such an awesome team to join.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Doug, sounds like a great fit for you and for Shasta. Should make for a successful adventure over the coming years! - NKR
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