Doug Bernstein, General Counsel
Professional Overview
Doug Bernstein is an accomplished legal executive with extensive experience advising technology startups and venture capital firms. As the General Counsel at First Round Capital and a founding member of TechGC, he leverages his deep industry expertise to provide strategic counsel and drive impactful legal initiatives.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the General Counsel at First Round Capital, a leading early-stage venture capital firm, Doug is responsible for overseeing all legal matters, including fund formation, portfolio company investments, and limited partner relations. He also serves as a trusted advisor to the firm's executive team, contributing to strategic decision-making and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
Additionally, Doug is a founding member of TechGC, a premier community and peer network for general counsels of technology companies. In this role, he collaborates with industry peers to share best practices, address common challenges, and shape the legal landscape for the technology sector.
Career Progression
Prior to his current roles, Doug held various legal positions, including Of Counsel at Lowenstein Sandler PC and VP and Senior Counsel at Associated Partners LP. He also has experience as an Adjunct Professor of Law (Venture Capital) at Rutgers Law School, where he shared his expertise with the next generation of legal professionals.
Throughout his career, Doug has developed a reputation as a highly skilled negotiator, adept at navigating complex legal and regulatory environments. His ability to identify and mitigate risks, coupled with his deep understanding of the venture capital and technology industries, has made him a valuable asset to the organizations he has served.
Academic Background
Doug holds a Juris Doctor degree from Rutgers Law School, where he graduated with honors. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delaware, with a focus on Economics and Political Science.
Areas of Expertise
- Venture capital fund formation and management
- Portfolio company investments and mergers and acquisitions
- Technology industry regulations and compliance
- Contract negotiation and risk mitigation
- Strategic legal advisory for executive leadership
- Thought leadership and community building in the legal tech industry
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Doug has been instrumental in shaping the legal landscape for technology startups and venture capital firms. He has played a pivotal role in the formation and management of several successful venture capital funds, ensuring compliance with industry regulations while maximizing returns for investors.
Moreover, Doug's contributions to the TechGC community have been widely recognized, as he has fostered a collaborative environment that enables general counsels to share knowledge, address common challenges, and drive innovation within the legal tech sector.
Conclusion
With his exceptional legal acumen, deep industry expertise, and proven track record of leadership, Doug Bernstein is a valuable asset to the technology and venture capital industries. As he continues to guide First Round Capital and contribute to the TechGC community, he remains committed to leveraging his expertise to drive strategic, impactful legal initiatives that support the growth and success of his clients and the broader industry.
