Career
What is a venture partner?
Quick Answer
A venture partner is a part-time senior role at a VC firm — typically an experienced operator, founder, or executive who sources deals, advises portfolio companies, and may lead investments, but isn't a full GP with carry across the entire fund.
Detailed Answer
Venture partners occupy a middle ground between full-time general partners and external advisors. They're deeply involved but not full GP team members.
Venture partner responsibilities: - **Deal sourcing** — Bringing investment opportunities through their network - **Due diligence** — Evaluating deals in their domain of expertise - **Portfolio support** — Advising portfolio companies, making introductions - **Board service** — Occasionally taking board seats or observer roles - **Deal leading** — Some venture partners lead investments
Compensation structure: - No base salary (or modest retainer) - Carry on deals they source or lead (deal-by-deal carry) - Sometimes a small % of fund-level carry - May co-invest personal capital alongside the fund
Who becomes a venture partner: - Successful founders between companies - C-suite executives exploring the investing side - Domain experts in hot sectors (AI, biotech, fintech) - Former GPs stepping back from full-time roles
Venture partner vs. other roles: - **GP** — Full carry, full commitment, fund decision-making - **Venture partner** — Partial carry, flexible commitment, advisory - **EIR (Entrepreneur in Residence)** — Temporary role while building next company - **Scout** — Sources deals for a small check and carry allocation - **Advisor** — External, informal, typically no carry