Principal - Seed Stage Investments

Principal - Seed Stage Investments

Alumni Ventures is seeking an accomplished Principal to join its investment team, focusing specifically on seed-stage investments. This presents a significant opportunity for a seasoned venture capital professional to drive deal flow, execute investments, and contribute to the growth of a prominent venture capital firm with a distinctive investment model. As a Principal, you will be at the forefront of identifying and backing the next generation of innovative companies from their earliest stages.

This role is central to Alumni Ventures' investment strategy, focusing specifically on seed-stage opportunities within the Venture Capital asset class. You will be instrumental in expanding our portfolio and impact across diverse sectors.

Key Responsibilities include:

Investment Sourcing and Evaluation:* Proactively identify, screen, and evaluate seed-stage investment opportunities across various sectors. This involves cultivating a robust network within the startup ecosystem, engaging with founders, and assessing initial pitches for alignment with the firm's investment criteria.

Due Diligence Leadership:* Lead comprehensive due diligence processes, conducting in-depth market analysis, technology assessments, team evaluations, and financial modeling. Prepare detailed investment memos and present findings to the investment committee, articulating the investment thesis and potential risks.

Deal Negotiation and Execution:* Structure and negotiate investment terms, including valuation, governance rights, and other key provisions. Manage the legal documentation and closing processes for new investments, ensuring adherence to firm standards and timelines.

Portfolio Company Support:* Actively engage with portfolio companies post-investment, providing strategic guidance, operational support, and introductions to relevant industry contacts. Assist founders with follow-on fundraising rounds, talent acquisition, and market expansion strategies. Monitor portfolio performance and prepare regular updates for internal review.

Ecosystem Engagement and Thought Leadership:* Build and maintain strong relationships with entrepreneurs, co-investors, incubators, accelerators, and university innovation hubs. Represent Alumni Ventures at industry events and contribute to the firm's market intelligence and investment thesis development, identifying emerging trends and investment areas.

This position is based in Chicago, United States. Compensation for this role includes a base salary ranging from $175,000 to $185,000, complemented by equity, carry, and performance-based bonuses.

We are seeking an individual with a demonstrated ability to source, evaluate, and execute early-stage investments, possessing a founder-first mindset, robust analytical capabilities, and a deep understanding of venture capital mechanics. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of identifying high-potential startups and supporting their growth, operating effectively within a collaborative, fast-paced environment. This role offers the chance to make a substantial impact on both our portfolio and the broader innovation landscape.