Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer with a Venture Capital Firm – San Francisco, CA
JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, technology-focused Venture Capital firm in their search for a world-class Chief Operating Officer (COO). Based in the heart of innovation, San Francisco, CA, our client is a dynamic and forward-thinking fund renowned for backing visionary founders and disruptive technologies from seed to growth stage. With a multi-billion dollar portfolio of successful companies and a commitment to fostering long-term partnerships, they are at the forefront of shaping the future of technology, enterprise software, and consumer internet.
This is a pivotal executive leadership role, serving as the operational backbone of the firm and a key strategic partner to the General Partners (GPs). The COO will be entrusted with building and scaling a best-in-class operational infrastructure that supports the firm’s ambitious growth trajectory. This individual will be responsible for the seamless execution of all non-investment activities, including finance, legal, compliance, investor relations, human resources, and technology.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of the venture capital landscape, combining strategic foresight with meticulous, hands-on execution. You will be the architect of the systems and processes that enable the investment team to focus on what they do best: identifying and nurturing the next generation of industry-defining companies.
Success in this role requires more than just operational expertise; it demands a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment. You will act as a central hub of communication and coordination, ensuring alignment across all firm functions and fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and integrity. This is a unique opportunity for a proven operational leader to make a significant impact on a leading venture capital firm, its portfolio companies, and its community of Limited Partners (LPs).
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer with a Venture Capital Firm – San Francisco, CA
The Chief Operating Officer will have a broad and impactful mandate, overseeing the entire operational and administrative infrastructure of the firm. Key responsibilities are multifaceted and will evolve with the firm’s growth, but will primarily encompass the following areas:
Firm Strategy and Operations Management
- Partner with the General Partners to develop and execute the firm’s long-term strategic plan, providing operational insights and ensuring resource alignment with strategic goals.
- Oversee all day-to-day non-investment operations, including human resources, information technology, office administration, and vendor management, to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
- Design, implement, and continuously improve scalable processes and systems across the organization to support growth, mitigate risk, and enhance productivity.
- Lead key strategic initiatives and special projects as directed by the partnership, such as new fund launches, geographic expansion, or the implementation of new technology platforms.
- Foster a high-performance culture by leading talent management initiatives, including recruiting, onboarding, professional development, and performance management for all non-investment staff.
Financial Management and Fund Administration
- In close partnership with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), oversee all aspects of fund and management company finance, accounting, and administration.
- Manage the firm’s annual budgeting and long-range financial planning processes, providing insightful analysis to support strategic decision-making.
- Supervise the fund administration team and external service providers to ensure accurate and timely NAV calculation, capital calls, distributions, and portfolio valuation.
- Oversee the preparation and review of quarterly and annual financial statements, LP reports, and other critical financial communications, ensuring the highest standards of transparency and accuracy.
- Manage the firm’s treasury function, including cash management, credit facilities, and banking relationships.
Investor Relations and Fundraising Support
- Serve as a key point of contact for Limited Partners on all operational, financial, and administrative matters, building and maintaining strong relationships based on trust and responsiveness.
- Oversee the LP onboarding process, ensuring a seamless and professional experience for new investors.
- Support the GPs in all aspects of the fundraising process, including the preparation of marketing materials, due diligence questionnaires (DDQs), and data room management.
- Plan and execute high-impact investor events, including the Annual General Meeting, LP Advisory Committee meetings, and other investor communications.
Legal, Compliance, and Risk Management
- Serve as the firm’s senior compliance officer, responsible for developing and maintaining a robust compliance program in accordance with SEC regulations for Registered Investment Advisers (RIAs).
- Manage relationships with outside counsel and oversee all legal matters, including fund formation, investment documentation, and corporate governance.
- Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate operational, financial, and reputational risks across the firm.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive policies and procedures, including a code of ethics, business continuity plan, and cybersecurity policies, to safeguard the firm and its stakeholders. A thorough understanding of venture capital industry best practices is essential for this function.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer with a Venture Capital Firm – San Francisco, CA
The successful candidate will be a proven executive with a track record of operational leadership and excellence within the alternative investment industry. We are seeking an individual with the following qualifications:
Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive professional experience, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., COO, CFO, Head of Operations) within a venture capital or private equity firm. Experience at a high-growth, venture-backed technology company may also be considered.
Education
An MBA, JD, or other relevant advanced degree from a top-tier institution is strongly preferred. A CPA designation is highly advantageous.
Domain Expertise
Deep, hands-on knowledge of venture capital fund structures, accounting principles, legal documentation, and regulatory compliance (specifically the Investment Advisers Act of 1940).
Leadership Acumen
Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and mentor cross-functional teams. A player-coach mentality with a history of building and scaling high-performing organizations.
Strategic Mindset
Proven ability to think strategically and translate high-level goals into actionable plans. Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
Communication Skills
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including GPs, LPs, and portfolio company executives.
Interpersonal Skills
Impeccable integrity, professional gravitas, and a low-ego approach. The ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
Technical Proficiency
High degree of proficiency with financial software, portfolio management systems, and other industry-standard technology platforms.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in investing in their people and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary and a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Carried Interest
A meaningful participation in the firm’s carried interest, providing direct alignment with the success of the funds.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents with minimal employee contribution.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including firm-wide holidays and parental leave.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuous learning, including industry conferences, courses, and certifications.
Workplace Perks
A modern office in downtown San Francisco, daily catered lunches, a wellness stipend, and regular team-building events and offsites.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to be the exclusive search firm retained for this exceptional leadership opportunity. We are seeking a truly outstanding individual to help shape the future of this premier venture capital firm. If you are a strategic, results-oriented operational leader with a passion for technology and venture capital, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this position, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. For more information on our expertise in recruiting top-tier talent for the investment community, please visit our Venture Capital Executive Search practice area page. We look forward to hearing from you.
