Investors & Partners at Forerunner Ventures

Brian O'Malley

Managing Partner, Forerunner Ventures

Brian O'Malley has spent 20+ years focused purely on consumer and commerce investing across three top-tier firms, giving him an unusually complete view of both consumer brands and the infrastructure software that powers modern retail. He's known for his consumer-first approach of conducting primary research with end users rather than relying on generic data, and for his focus on empowering small merchants and independent professionals through software and marketplaces that help them compete with large retailers.

Nicole Johnson

Partner, Forerunner Ventures

Nicole Johnson is a Partner at Forerunner Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on identifying and investing in transformative consumer businesses. With expertise spanning consumer, fintech, and digital health sectors, Johnson has demonstrated a keen ability to identify breakout companies early in their growth trajectories. Her notable investments include Jet, the e-commerce disruptor, and Glossier, the direct-to-consumer beauty brand that redefined the cosmetics industry. Johnson's investment philosophy emphasizes backing founders who are reimagining traditional industries through innovative business models and customer-centric approaches. Her track record reflects a commitment to supporting companies that leverage technology and design to create meaningful consumer experiences. At Forerunner Ventures, she continues to identify promising opportunities at the intersection of technology, consumer behavior, and emerging market trends.