9. How operating partners help scale your business, Sylvie Matz, Falco Global Partners

Summary

In this episode of ECA Tech Talks, Andrea Vaugan interviews Sylvie Matz, an experienced operating partner, discussing the role and importance of operating partners in the European tech ecosystem. They explore the challenges faced by startups and scale-ups, the evolution of the operating partner role in Europe, and the need for more operating partners to bridge the value creation gap. Sylvie shares insights on how operating partners can drive growth, support management teams, and enhance the relationship between investors and companies.

Takeaways

• An operating partner is a seasoned executive or entrepreneur.

• Operating partners help drive change and create value in portfolio companies.

• The relationship between capital, experience, and execution is crucial for startups.

• International development poses significant challenges for startups.

• Operating partners can provide valuable insights and connections.

• The role of operating partners is more established in the US than in Europe.

• Experience in leading companies is essential for operating partners.

• Building a personal network is key to becoming an operating partner.

• Operating partners can help close the talent gap in tech sectors.

• The value creation gap in Europe can be addressed by involving end users.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Operating Partners

• 02:05 Defining the Role of an Operating Partner

• 05:01 The Importance of Operating Partners in Scale-Ups

• 11:33 The Relationship Between Operating Partners and Companies

• 12:20 The Evolution of Operating Partners in Europe

• 16:20 Becoming an Operating Partner

• 20:25 The Need for More Operating Partners in Europe

• 27:23 Closing the Value Creation Gap

• 33:25 Conclusion and Future Discussions

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