Jason Kirby

Professional Overview

Jason Kirby is a seasoned finance and investment professional with over a decade of experience in the private equity, venture capital, and real estate sectors. As the Managing Director and Founding Partner at Thunder, he leads a team of investment experts in identifying and capitalizing on high-growth opportunities. Additionally, Jason serves as an Operating Partner at Interplay, where he leverages his deep industry knowledge to support portfolio companies. He is also an active member of the PEF Community and the Angel Squad at Hustle Fund, contributing his expertise to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Managing Director & Founding Partner, Thunder (2021-Present)

• Responsible for overseeing the firm's investment strategy, deal sourcing, and portfolio management

• Leads a team of investment professionals in executing complex transactions and driving value creation

• Instrumental in establishing Thunder as a leading investment platform, with a focus on disruptive technologies and innovative business models

Operating Partner, Interplay (2021-Present)

• Provides strategic guidance and operational support to portfolio companies, helping them scale and optimize their businesses

• Leverages extensive industry knowledge and networks to identify growth opportunities and mitigate risks

• Plays a key role in the firm's investment decision-making and portfolio management processes

Chapter Lead, PEF Community (2024-Present)

• Spearheads the growth and development of the PEF Community, a premier network for private equity and venture capital professionals

• Organizes and hosts events, workshops, and roundtables to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration within the industry

Angel Squad Member, Hustle Fund (2023-Present)

• Serves as an active angel investor, providing both capital and strategic advice to early-stage startups

• Leverages his extensive investment and operational experience to identify and support promising founders

Investor & Advisor, Angel Investor & RE/VC/PE LP (2021-Present)

• Maintains a diverse portfolio of investments across the real estate, venture capital, and private equity sectors

• Provides strategic guidance and operational support to portfolio companies as an investor and advisor

Career Progression

Prior to his current roles, Jason held various investment and advisory positions, including:

• Investment Analyst, Blackstone Group (2017-2021)

• Associate, Bain Capital Private Equity (2014-2017)

• Analyst, Goldman Sachs Investment Banking Division (2011-2014)

Throughout his career, Jason has demonstrated a keen ability to identify and capitalize on emerging trends, helping his clients and portfolio companies achieve sustainable growth and profitability.

Academic Background

Jason holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated summa cum laude. He also earned a Master of Business Administration from the Harvard Business School, where he was recognized for his academic excellence and leadership contributions.

Areas of Expertise

• Private equity and venture capital investment

• Real estate investment and portfolio management

• Operational optimization and value creation

• Mergers and acquisitions

• Strategic advisory and portfolio company support

• Entrepreneurship and early-stage startups

Professional Impact

• Instrumental in the successful acquisition and integration of several portfolio companies at Blackstone and Bain Capital

• Recognized for his role in driving the rapid growth and profitability of a leading fintech startup as an angel investor

• Actively involved in shaping the PEF Community's strategic direction and programming, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the industry

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, deep industry expertise, and proven track record of success, Jason Kirby is a respected figure in the world of finance and investment. As he continues to drive growth and innovation in his current roles, he remains dedicated to leveraging his skills and networks to support the success of his clients, portfolio companies, and the broader investment community.