I took a consulting CMO role at an early-stage VC. Here’s why.
Let me clarify the 2 main reasons why you clicked to read this post:
I have NOT moved from my role at FleetPanda. This is an additional responsibility. (Thanks Pavan!)
The VC name is Arali Ventures — early investors of Insent (acq by ZoomInfo).
I have been trying to be the sounding board for founders and operators for the past few years now. I have been moderately successful at it, as well. In fact, my current role at FleetPanda was also a result of a random conversation between Pavan and me jamming on this unheard niche. Hence, when Arali Ventures chose to pay me for it, the answer was already clear in my head.
If you haven’t heard about Arali Ventures.
Arali Ventures is an operator-driven seed-stage Enterprise tech-focused VC fund, investing in companies that are transforming the technology and market landscape across various industries.
The first fund portfolio includes Finbox, Wizfreight, Unbox Robotics, Wingman ( acquired by Clari), Insent.ai ( acquired by Zoominfo), Hbox.ai, Cynlr, Bimakavach, Prolance etc.
The second fund has invested in some interesting companies like Pibit.ai, 50Fin, Fluxgen, Frigate, Exobooks, Protecto, Growcoms, and a few other unannounced ones.
The story thus far.
I've been following Arali since their investment in Insent, a win-win for everyone involved. Since then, Arun and I have chatted a few times about potential GTM stack investments they were considering.
I guess my direct approach resonated with the team. They even invited me to do an in-person session for their portfolio companies, which apparently went over quite well. Seems my "Net Promoter Score" with them was pretty high — the next thing I knew, they were offering me a formal role!
My reasons for accepting a role with a VC
I have been in the world of startups for a decade now. And the world of Venture capital has fascinated me forever. So much so that I plan to write a screenplay based in a VC office in the near future (if you have ideas, DM me).
And this role gives me a peek into the world with courtside seats.
Secondly, early-stage startups have been my jam. I have had friends come in and tell me — “Dude! I am exhausted just looking at you doing Zero to Ones.” To be honest, even I am. But does that mean I am bored of it? Hell no.
I want to be around as many founders and builders and makers as I can. I thoroughly believe that the sheer act of creation is to go against the norm. And going against the norm is in itself applause-worthy, irrespective of the result.
And thirdly, it’s the Arali portfolio. A quick look you won't find them chasing trends or getting caught up in hype. They focus on companies creating real value, which is exactly how I approach business evaluation myself.
Their niche in Vertical SaaS and the types of companies they invest in are incredibly innovative. The unique challenges they face would push me to be creative and develop new skills in ways I wouldn't encounter otherwise. It's the kind of variety and challenge I thrive on.
I think I have a unique set of skills. Skills I have acquired during a moderately long career. Skills that can really be useful for the stage and type of companies Arali Ventures usually invests in.
I am pumped (and a tad bit nervous). This is unlike anything I have done before. And I need all the wishes you all have to offer.
Happy Marketing!