The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch 20VC: Optimising Investment Decision-Making in Compressed Fundraising Timelines & A Deep Dive on Portfolio Construction, Price Sensitivity and The Importance of Ownership with Mark Mullen, Co-Founder @ Bonfire Ventures
Jun 24, 2021
Mark Mullen, co-founder of Bonfire Ventures, shares insights from his extensive career in venture capital. He discusses the art of portfolio construction, emphasizing ownership and reserve allocation. Mullen also delves into the evolving decision-making structures in VC, highlighting the need for speed in compressed fundraising timelines. He reflects on the balance between rigorous analysis and quick decisions, offering guidance to founders on cap table selection and board dynamics, while addressing the importance of consensus in investing.
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Mentorship from Bill Daniels
- Mark Mullen worked with Bill Daniels, the "father of cable TV," for 20 years.
- He learned valuable lessons about direct communication and integrity from Daniels.
Learning from Market Crashes
- Witnessing market crashes taught Mullen the importance of taking advantage of market dips.
- He learned to adjust his risk tolerance and capitalize on opportunities during downturns.
Solo GP vs. Partnership
- Transitioning from a solo GP to a partnership expanded Mullen's network and deal flow significantly.
- He cautions against sacrificing speed and nimbleness when scaling a venture firm.
