She had planned to pursue an economics PhD, but research showing technology companies' impact on economic growth inspired Jamie Rosen to become a #VC to support incredible founders pursuing outsized positive impacts on the world.
This week we highlight CapitalG investment VPs, today focusing on Jamie Rosen who worked on investments in Dataiku, ID.me, Expel, DTEX Systems and Orca Security.
1. What was your journey to venture capital?
Before joining CapitalG, I worked at Bain & Company and planned to pursue a PhD in economics. As I prepared to go back to school, I revisited research by Paul Romer that pointed to technology companies as the primary driver of recent economic growth. This research really struck a chord with me and ultimately led me to change my own course to pursue investing. I believe technology companies will continue to have an outsized positive impact on the world. It’s an honor to partner with remarkable companies and founders on their audacious journeys.
2. Why did you join CapitalG, and what do you like most about the job?
Back in 2019 when I was making the jump to venture capital, the levels of investment in the venture ecosystem were at an all time high. What made CapitalG particularly exciting to me and helped it stand out from other firms was the opportunity to leverage the scale, experience and resources of Google to support founders in a differentiated way. It’s quite difficult to earn the right to partner and invest in transformational businesses. The best companies tend to have their pick of investors, even in so-called “soft markets.” Our access to the Googler network helps us open doors and drive real value for our companies.
3. Who is your hero and why?
My late grandmother is my hero. Born in Germany, she escaped with her parents at the age of 12 during WWII. Moving first to Panama and then to New York, she had to learn an entirely new language, make new friends, and build a new life. She went on to attend NYU and became a real estate agent, supporting her family and paving the way for me to have the opportunities I have had in my life.
I had a very special relationship with her growing up. Each week we all gathered to celebrate Shabbat. This left an impression on me: watching her continue to celebrate her religion and beliefs despite the persecution brought upon her family. She taught me to stick to my values, be resilient, and always work hard.
4. What is an item on your bucket list that you have completed?
Before I went to college I attended a policy program in Washington, DC where I had the opportunity to sit next to Ruth Bader Ginsburg at a dinner. She has always been an inspiration to me, given her incredible contributions to women’s rights and gender equality, so the chance to share a conversation with her over dinner was a dream come true.
Learn more about Jamie, Kelly Barton, Army Tunjaicon, Manmeet Gujral and Conner Lovely at https://lnkd.in/eGiQY-W5