Number of Transactions (last 2 years): Twice (successfully). 4x total
Number of Transactions (Career): 8
Area of M&A Expertise: Being prepared
Company Specialty: We are a venture fund. We invest in high growth tech companies at the early stage. Most companies exit through M&A. Comes in waves, but we anticipate 1-2x exits / yr.
One piece of advice for entrepreneurs that relates to M&A: Lean on a board member / advisor / consultant who has done it before. Many of the common pitfalls are avoidable and recognize that you have frequency imbalance with the counterparty you are negotiating with!
Fun Fact: I’m a vegetarian, but am an avid spearfisher.
As a reformed corporate financial analyst and twice-failed entrepreneur, Jay brings a pragmatic and analytical approach to Rhino Ventures (formerly Vancouver Founder Fund), which he co-founded with Fraser and Dan.
Jay’s passion for business is undeniable and he is a true utility player, working with companies on everything from business strategy to fundraising to executive recruiting. His genuine personality enables him to build strong, trusting relationships quickly and is often the one to get calls late at night from founders when they need someone to lean on.
Jay is an Adjunct Professor at UBC, where he teaches New Ventures Design, and is an Associate at Creative Destruction Lab, where he mentors founders of early-stage startups.
Jay received his Biology degree from Queen’s University and his MBA from UBC Sauder School of Business. In his spare time, Jay pours over business books and loses himself in marine aquaculture publications.
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