Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Rafael Machado is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader with extensive experience across the retail and technology sectors. As an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) at Antler, he leverages his expertise to support the growth and development of early-stage startups. Additionally, he serves as a Partner at Origami Partners, a venture capital firm, and holds a Board Member position at ABV - Associação Brasileira do Varejo, a prominent Brazilian retail association.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR), Antler (2025-01-01 to Present)
- Provides strategic guidance and mentorship to founders of early-stage startups, helping them to refine their business models and accelerate growth
- Leverages deep industry knowledge and entrepreneurial experience to identify and nurture promising ventures
- Collaborates with the Antler team to curate and invest in innovative solutions that address market needs
Partner, Origami Partners (2022-06-01 to Present)
- Responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and executing investment opportunities in the retail and technology sectors
- Advises portfolio companies on strategic initiatives, operational optimization, and fundraising strategies
- Contributes to the firm's overall investment thesis and decision-making processes
Board Member, ABV - Associação Brasileira do Varejo (2023-06-01 to Present)
- Provides strategic guidance and industry expertise to the association, contributing to the development and implementation of initiatives that support the growth and competitiveness of the Brazilian retail sector
- Collaborates with fellow board members to identify and address key challenges faced by the industry
- Represents the association's interests and serves as a liaison between the organization and relevant stakeholders
Career Progression
Prior to his current roles, Rafael held several leadership positions, including:
- Managing Director, Repassa (2024-08-01 to 2025-01-01): Oversaw the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of this leading fashion resale platform, driving significant growth and market expansion.
- Advisor, Br Supply Suprimentos Corporativos (2022-06-01 to 2024-03-01): Provided strategic guidance and industry expertise to this corporate procurement solutions provider, contributing to the development of innovative offerings.
- Commercial Director (CCO), Osklen (2019-03-01 to 2022-04-01): Spearheaded the brand's commercial strategy, leading cross-functional teams to enhance sales performance and expand the company's footprint.
- Founding CEO, Mira Muebles (2016-10-01 to 2019-02-01): Conceptualized and launched this online furniture marketplace, laying the foundation for a successful venture.
Academic Background
Rafael holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the Universidade de São Paulo (USP), where he graduated with distinction.
Areas of Expertise
- Retail and e-commerce strategy
- Technology-driven business model innovation
- Venture capital and startup investment
- Operational optimization and performance management
- Talent development and team leadership
Professional Impact
- Instrumental in driving growth and market share expansion for leading retail and e-commerce brands
- Recognized as a thought leader in the Brazilian retail industry, contributing to industry-wide initiatives and policy discussions
- Proven track record of identifying and nurturing successful startups, leveraging his deep industry knowledge and entrepreneurial expertise
Conclusion
With his extensive experience as an entrepreneur, business leader, and investor, Rafael Machado is well-positioned to drive innovation and transform the retail and technology sectors. As an Entrepreneur in Residence at Antler and a Partner at Origami Partners, he continues to make a significant impact, supporting the growth of early-stage startups and guiding investment decisions that shape the future of these dynamic industries.
