Jillian Manus – European Commission Representative
Jillian Manus: Pioneering Early-Stage Investments in Silicon Valley
Introduction to Jillian Manus and Structure Capital
Jillian Manus is a significant figure in the venture capital landscape, currently serving as the Managing Partner of Structure Capital, an early-stage venture fund based in Silicon Valley. This firm has earned the nickname "Architects of the Zero Waste Economy" for its focus on investing in underutilized assets and excess capacity. In 2021, Business Insider recognized her as one of the top 25 early-stage female investors, highlighting her influence and success in a typically male-dominated industry.
Career Milestones and Board Memberships
Jillian Manus boasts an impressive career that spans various high-profile roles:
Corporate Boards: She holds positions on various boards, including:
- Stanford University School of Medicine’s Board of Fellows
- NASDAQ Entrepreneurial Center’s Board of Directors
- NYU Tisch School of the Arts
- Communities in Schools
- Safe and Sound
- Shift
- Previous Professional Roles: Before her current role at Structure Capital, Ms. Manus had a fulfilling career in finance and media. Some of her previous positions include:
- Co-Director of Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT) at Credit Suisse Zurich
- Director of Development for renowned companies Universal Pictures and Warner Bros.
- Associate Publisher at Upside, a national publication focusing on financial strategies in the tech sector.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Jillian has also ventured into entrepreneurship, founding Broad Strategy and Global Goal Management, Inc. Through these initiatives, she has contributed significantly to strategic business planning and consulting, particularly in the fields of technology and investment.
Public Speaking and Media Contributions
A recognized voice in the business world, Ms. Manus is a frequent speaker at global events, providing insights into business trends, investment strategies, and economic policies. Her commentary has been featured on various media platforms, including:
- CNBC’s "Squawk Alley"
- Bloomberg Business News
Additionally, she co-hosts "The Pitch," a popular business podcast where she engages with other industry leaders and investors.
Education and Advocacy for Inclusion
Jillian Manus pursued her education at prestigious institutions, having attended both the University of Oxford and New York University (NYU). At NYU, she was active on the Board of Trustees, indicating her commitment to her alma mater and higher education.
Throughout her career, Ms. Manus has championed the cause of inclusion and diversity in the workplace. She believes that fostering an inclusive environment is crucial for innovation and success. One of her key messaging points is the idea of "Investing in Values, not Just Valuations." She emphasizes the significance of aligning investments with personal and societal values, suggesting that this approach can lead to more sustainable and ethical business practices.
Conclusion
Jillian Manus stands out as a leader in the venture capital field, using her extensive experience and knowledge to shape a sustainable future through strategic investments. Through her work, she inspires others to think critically about the impact of their investments and the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion in all industries.
