Senior Director

University of Illinois - Urbana, IL

Full-time - Senior

Hybrid - Urbana, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Senior Director at Illinois Ventures will lead investment activities focused on startup and early-stage companies that stem from advanced technologies developed by the University of Illinois community. This role involves managing pre-seed and venture capital funds, overseeing investment processes, and providing valuation expertise for portfolio companies. The position is hybrid, requiring four days in the office each week, and involves collaboration with the CEO and other team members to ensure the success of the funds and programs.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate investment opportunities aligned with Illinois Ventures' fund objectives.
• Conduct due diligence and lead negotiations, including term sheet development and deal execution.
• Prepare financial models and write investment memos to support potential investment candidates.
• Present investment opportunities to the team and investment committees, offering recommendations on funding.
• Oversee ongoing management of the investment portfolio, including board roles and liquidity transactions.
• Support portfolio companies in product development, market entry strategies, and acquiring additional funding.
• Track and report on the progress of investments, maintaining a comprehensive understanding of portfolio performance.
• Maintain detailed records of all investments for reporting and trend analysis.
• Responsible for fund reporting, portfolio valuation, and preparation of documentation.
• Develop valuation models for portfolio companies for quarterly reporting and audits.
• Organize and manage fund operations, valuations, and finance, including legal document review and contract negotiation.
• Support fundraising efforts for future funds and maintain relationships with investors.
• Build relationships with investment capital sources to support University startup companies.
• Engage technology innovators within the University of Illinois System and support faculty and student companies.
• Act as a mentor and leader within the firm, contributing to the development of junior team members.
• Travel as needed to meet with portfolio companies and engage with stakeholders.

Requirements

• MBA or other relevant advanced degree in business, finance, law, economics, science, medicine, or engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in venture capital, corporate or strategic investing, or related fields.
• Excellent finance and analytical skills, including experience in developing complex financial and valuation models.
• Passion for innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in business consulting, financial services, or business development related to venture capital.
• Willingness to invest in the General Partnership to support potential for carried interest allocation.

Benefits

• Hybrid work environment with flexibility in scheduling.
• Opportunity to mentor and lead within the firm.
• Engagement with a network of high-net-worth alumni and investors.