Sarmad Nazki - Co-founder, PYOR and BrownRice Capital
Professional Overview
Sarmad Nazki is a seasoned finance executive with extensive experience in the technology and startup ecosystems. As the Co-founder of PYOR and BrownRice Capital, he leverages his expertise in financial strategy, operations, and management to drive innovation and growth for emerging businesses.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Co-founder, PYOR (2022-08-01 to Present)
- Responsible for developing and executing the strategic vision for PYOR Edge, a leading platform for decentralized finance and Web3 solutions.
- Oversees the company's financial operations, fundraising efforts, and business development initiatives to drive sustainable growth.
- Collaborates with a talented team to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the rapidly evolving fintech and blockchain industries.
Co-Founder, BrownRice Capital (2022-08-01 to Present)
- Co-founded BrownRice Capital, a boutique investment firm focused on supporting early-stage startups in the technology and fintech sectors.
- Leads the firm's investment strategy, portfolio management, and venture development activities to create value for portfolio companies and investors.
- Leverages extensive industry connections and a deep understanding of market trends to source, evaluate, and execute promising investment opportunities.
Career Progression
Chief Financial Officer, CoinSwitch Kuber (2021-05-01 to 2022-08-01)
- Played a key role in leading the financial strategy and operations of CoinSwitch Kuber, one of India's largest cryptocurrency exchange platforms.
- Oversaw the company's financial planning, reporting, and compliance functions, contributing to its successful growth and expansion.
- Instrumental in securing significant funding rounds and strategic partnerships to support the company's ambitious development roadmap.
Senior Vice President Finance, Bounce (2020-01-01 to 2021-05-01)
- Managed the finance function for Bounce, a leading shared mobility startup in India, during a period of rapid expansion and operational growth.
- Spearheaded financial planning, analysis, and reporting to ensure the company's financial health and alignment with strategic objectives.
- Collaborated cross-functionally to optimize operational efficiencies and drive cost-saving initiatives.
Various Finance Leadership Roles, Ola (ANI Technologies Pvt. Ltd.) (2015-12-01 to 2019-11-01)
- Held progressively senior finance roles at Ola, including Director Finance and Senior Director Finance, contributing to the company's growth and transformation.
- Played a pivotal role in the company's financial planning, fundraising, and strategic decision-making processes.
- Implemented effective financial controls and reporting systems to enhance operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
Academic Background
Sarmad Nazki holds a Chartered Accountancy degree from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, as well as a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Delhi.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial strategy and operations management
- Fundraising and investor relations
- Mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships
- Financial modeling and data-driven decision-making
- Startup business development and growth acceleration
Professional Impact
- Played a key role in securing significant funding rounds and strategic partnerships for CoinSwitch Kuber, contributing to the company's rapid growth and market leadership.
- Implemented cost-saving initiatives and optimized operational efficiencies at Bounce, helping the company navigate challenging market conditions.
- Leveraged his extensive industry connections and financial expertise to support the growth and success of numerous startups as a co-founder and investor.
Conclusion
With a proven track record of driving financial excellence and catalyzing growth for technology and fintech companies, Sarmad Nazki is well-positioned to navigate the dynamic landscape of the startup ecosystem. As the Co-founder of PYOR and BrownRice Capital, he is dedicated to empowering emerging businesses and shaping the future of the industry.