Jelena Zec

San Francisco, California, United States

Professional Overview

Jelena Zec is a seasoned investment professional with a proven track record of driving innovation and growth in the technology and consumer sectors. As a Partner at Citi Ventures, she leverages her expertise in venture capital, strategic partnerships, and investment management to identify and support promising startups that are transforming their respective industries.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Partner, Citi Ventures (2021 - Present)

• Responsible for identifying, evaluating, and executing strategic investments in early-stage technology companies

• Collaborates with Citi's business units to facilitate partnerships and pilot programs that drive value for the bank and its clients

• Serves as a strategic advisor to portfolio companies, providing guidance on business development, fundraising, and scaling operations

Ambassador, Sie Ventures (2021 - Present)

• Represents Sie Ventures in the venture capital ecosystem, promoting the firm's investment thesis and supporting portfolio companies

• Leverages her extensive network to source and evaluate new investment opportunities

Investor, Alma Angels (2020 - Present)

• Actively invests in and supports female-founded startups, contributing to the growth and success of diverse entrepreneurial teams

Career Progression

Principal, Unilever Ventures (2018 - 2021)

• Spearheaded the firm's investments in direct-to-consumer and sustainability-focused startups, contributing to Unilever's strategic initiatives

• Served as a board observer and strategic advisor to portfolio companies, helping them navigate scaling challenges and achieve key milestones

Investment Associate, Cassia Investments (2013 - 2018)

• Evaluated and executed private equity and venture capital investments in the consumer and technology sectors

• Played a key role in deal sourcing, due diligence, and portfolio company management

Academic Background

Jelena holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where she specialized in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. She also earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Areas of Expertise

• Venture capital and private equity investments

• Strategic partnership development

• Portfolio company management and scaling

• Consumer and technology industry trends

• Investment thesis development and execution

• Entrepreneurial ecosystem engagement

Professional Impact

• Contributed to the successful exits of several portfolio companies, delivering strong returns for investors

• Forged strategic partnerships between Citi and high-growth startups, enabling the bank to offer innovative products and services to its clients

• Actively mentors and supports female founders, contributing to the growth and visibility of diverse entrepreneurial talent

Conclusion

Jelena Zec is a versatile investment professional with a deep understanding of the technology and consumer sectors. Her extensive experience in venture capital, strategic partnerships, and portfolio management, combined with her passion for supporting entrepreneurial teams, positions her as a valuable asset to Citi Ventures and the broader investment community.