Open the Pod Bay Doors E01 Daniel Petre - Airtree Ventures
Jun 8, 2017
Daniel Petre, founder of Airtree Ventures and former Microsoft executive, shares his insights on the tech landscape. He discusses the evolving nature of algorithms, stressing the importance of contextual data over mere commoditized tech. Daniel reflects on his journey from corporate leadership to venture capital, spotlighting the impact of AI on jobs and society. He also touches on the critical role of fatherhood and shares his thoughts on navigating innovation in Australia’s corporate ecosystem, emphasizing the need for diversity and collaboration.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
From Microsoft VP To Venture Founder
- Daniel Petre left Microsoft after running a US product group to return home following a family tragedy and to run APAC for Microsoft.
- He later semi-retired, started a PhD, lost his dissertation to a lightning-damaged hard drive, and pivoted into venture investing.
Domain Expertise Trumps Generalist VC
- Australian venture historically failed because funds lacked domain experience and invested across indiscriminate sectors.
- Focused, operationally-informed investing in software enables outsized fund returns in a small market like Australia.
Use Intellectual Rigor To Guide Decisions
- Apply intellectual rigor to product and market decisions and define clear markers of success to detect and fix issues early.
- Think deeply about likely failure modes so you only need small pivots rather than wholesale course changes.
