Venture Capital Job – Senior Associate – Ardent Venture Partners

Ardent is an early stage venture fund, focusing on AI-native applications, vertical SaaS, and B2B fintech. With over 40 years of combined experience, our partners have a proven track record of leading successful investments, including companies like Method, Givebutter, and Crux Climate. We are passionate about supporting exceptional founders who are transforming industries with cutting-edge technology and AI-driven solutions.

Responsibilities

Own Investment Sub-Thesis:

• Lead the development and ownership of a unique sub-thesis that aligns with Ardent’s investment strategy.
• Contribute to the firm’s overall investment focus by identifying emerging trends, market dynamics, and technologies.
• Participate in internal discussions to refine and expand investment themes.

Deal Sourcing and Evaluation:

• Proactively identify and source new investment opportunities through networking, industry events, and outreach to founders.
• Perform initial screening, due diligence, and market analysis for potential investments.
• Develop compelling investment theses and present opportunities to the investment committee.

Due Diligence:

• Lead the end-to-end due diligence process, coordinating with external advisors and consultants.
• Conduct in-depth financial analysis, market assessments, and competitive landscaping.
• Evaluate product-market fit, management teams, and growth potential.

Portfolio Management:

• Support partners in leading deals and, over time, take ownership of managing investments.
• Provide tactical support to CEOs, including recruiting, product strategy, and scaling operations.
• Be the key point of contact for portfolio companies, balancing their needs while maintaining an independent, strategic viewpoint.
• Monitor the financial and operational performance of portfolio companies.

Networking and Relationship Building:

• Build and nurture strong relationships with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and venture capital peers.
• Represent Ardent at industry events and conferences, expanding the firm’s presence in key ecosystems.
• Leverage your network to source new opportunities and support portfolio companies.

Build Ardent:

• Contribute to firm-building activities, such as recruiting and developing junior talent.
• Participate in brand-building initiatives, including content creation, thought leadership, and representing Ardent in public forums.
• Be a constructive force within the firm, working horizontally to push the scope of Ardent’s capabilities.

Reporting and Communication:

• Prepare detailed reports on investment performance, market trends, and portfolio updates for internal and external stakeholders.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with Ardent’s partners, associates, and broader team.

Qualifications

Education:

• Advanced degree in Software, AI/ML, Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field (MBA preferred).
• Top-tier academic background (e.g., Stanford, Harvard, MIT) with strong professional credentials.

Experience: 

• 3-5 years of experience in product management, engineering, or operating roles at high-growth startups. Venture capital or private equity experience is strongly preferred.
• Proven track record of sourcing, evaluating, and managing investments in early-stage companies.
• Success in scaling companies or contributing to high-impact roles within software or technology sectors.

Skills:

• Technical Acumen: Deep expertise in software development, AI/ML, or product management, enabling the evaluation of technical teams and product-market fit.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong financial modeling, market analysis, and competitive research capabilities, with the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Empathy for founders, combined with operational experience in scaling businesses or supporting key growth initiatives.
• Networking: A well-established network within the software, AI, and startup communities, with the ability to leverage relationships for deal sourcing and portfolio support.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Your DNA:

• Driven, proactive, and passionate about technology and startups, with a demonstrated ability to exceed expectations and deliver outsized impact.
• A standout track record or specific area of expertise that sets you apart from your peers.