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.

About the role

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.

Ardent Venture Partners

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Senior VC Associate @ Ardent Venture Partners in New York City, NY