
Joe Neale
Venture Partner - European Markets
Born:
UK
Lives:
Switzerland
Joe boasts a rich career spanning more than two decades with a predominant focus on venture capital and technology. With a deep understanding of the VC landscape, Joe has been instrumental in nurturing startups to unicorn status and has cultivated strong partnerships across Europe, the United States and Asia.
Most recently, he was responsible for "rebooting" the technology side of Switzerland's oldest VC fund, VI Partners. Venture Incubator (VI) was launched in 2001 by ETHZ, McKinsey, and ten Swiss corporates, with the mission to stimulate entrepreneurship, create jobs, and attract further funding into Switzerland. In this capacity, he determined the investment strategy for the latest US$110 million fund, focusing on B2B software businesses that assisted corporate LPs with their digitalisation strategies.
Prior to this, as a Principal of m8 Capital, he played a decisive role in the launch and management of a $50 million fund that achieved notable successes, including investments in Evernote and Noom, that delivered a 1000x valuation increase since the initial investment.
Beyond investing, Joe's experience extends to operational roles, having been part of the team that launched MySpace UK and later, the Symbian Foundation.
Joe holds qualifications in Computing, Information and Media, and his standing as a distinguished Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts recognises his significant contributions to the tech entrepreneurship space.
What do you love about where you live?
The fresh air and easy access to all of Europe.
What are you currently pondering?
If there will come a point where rights will be granted for AI as it becomes increasingly intelligent.
What do you look for in a founding team?
Grit, gumption and character.
What does down-time look like?
Playing with my two little children, riding my bike through the hills, and watching films with my wife.